The big question

Seafire Steakhouse at the atlantis covers a vast floor space and boasts massive steaks, but does size matter?

By Charlie R Neyra

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Published: Fri 3 Feb 2012, 6:37 PM

Last updated: Tue 7 Apr 2015, 2:56 PM

It’s a question that has dogged mankind for millennia: Does size matter? And what’s the resounding answer to that quintessential concern? Easy… it’s a big YES. And if anywhere on the planet can prove that claim accurate then it’s Dubai, where size certainly matters, boasting the giant Burj Khalifa and the vast Palm Jumeirah, which is home to the gargantuan Seafire Steakhouse in Atlantis, The Palm.

So size is important — that much is set in stone (preferably gigantic stone) — but you need to know how to use it. Cavernous restaurants often have this problem, sometimes unable to fill their opulent space, which is something Seafire can fall foul of.

If full, the restaurant has 
a superb atmosphere. Busy, metropolitan, energetic, alive. But during low season it can lack that necessary spark that makes big beautiful. At this time of year that’s of no concern; the restaurant buzzes to the sound 
of diners chomping on giant steaks, which are some 
of the finest in the city. 
Imported beef from Australia and the US competes with lamb and corn-fed chicken, amongst other dishes, to offer any meat-lover a superb lineup.

The filet mignon is to die for, accompanied with onion rings and asparagus, but you’ll be just as satisfied with the Fish and Seafood selection, especially the lobster tail. It will, of course, be hard to visit a steakhouse without ordering the steak, so maybe save seafood for your second visit, and be sure to save space for the rich chocolate dessert.

A visit to Seafire in peak season, especially by a carnivore, is sure to impress through the restaurant’s size alone — but also through its juicy steaks and busy atmosphere, mostly consisting of snowbird tourists enjoying their Dubai winter break. During low season, it might be best to try somewhere a little cosier.

wknd@khaleejtimes.com

In seven words: Big, bold, brash venue with great meat

What we liked: The thick cut, juicy steaks

What we didn’t like: The lighting is quite flat

Restaurant best for: Tourists, meat lovers

Cost for two: Dh450 (approx. without drinks)

Did you know: The Seafire was the name of a British WWII plane, converted off a Spitfire, which could launch from aircraft carriers

Contact: Seafire Steakhouse, Atlantis, The Palm, Dubai, 04-4262626

• Food and Dining