Opening new doors to taste

A new Turkish-fusion cuisine restaurant at Al Seef Road, Dubai Creek brings new flavours

Imagine sitting by the seaside and allowing all your senses to relish the moment. What's better than indulging in such a wonderful feeling on a chilly evening by the Dubai Creek. That's exactly what  Doors Freestyle Grill, the newest Turkish fusion restaurant in town that's set against the backdrop of Dubai Creek waterway, offers. Great views and a scrumptious menu that'll tantalize all your senses.
There's a good reason why this eatery decided to go for an unusual name - Doors (nothing to do with the legendary rock band though). The main concept (freestyle grill) behind the place was to create an ambience and dishes that would open the doors to the five senses - smell (from the food being cooked in front of the guest), taste (fusion of flavours), sight (colourful presentations), hearing (listening to the sizzling sound of dishes being cooked at your table) and touch (the feel of succulent meat). The sprawling property is spread over six zones, each offering a diverse experience and allowing diners to enjoy different settings. The Majilis area is designed for private gatherings. Sheesha enthusiasts can chill out with a hubble-bubble in the Sheesha Lounge while listening to relaxing music. And those who prefer to eat outdoors, can dine al fresco in the porch area which overlooks the gorgeous Dubai Creek.
Going by the presentation of the dishes, the place is sure to attract meat-lovers who enjoy their meals with a smoky flavour, and cooked right in front of them. The menu is extensive, and features a plethora of signature and fusion dishes created by Chef by Kemal Çéylan for this region keeping in mind the varied tastes of different communities.
We started off with some exotic starters like Pomegranate Salad, Eggplant Salad and Beef Sushi, and then moved on to mains like Lamb Asado, Beef Kaymak, Grilled Prawns and Lamb Tenderloin.
We found the Beef Sushi a welcome change in the way it was served - done right in front of us. Tender strips of succulent beef strip rolled in veggies were smoked/cooked by a service staff  armed with a flame torch. The meat is cooked as per your choice - rare, medium or well done. It's this barbeque-like aroma emanating from the burning process that fires your sense of smell. Moreover, it's a delight to watch the apron-clad personal indulging in the cooking 'ritual'. Among the starters, the Pomegranate Salad was our pick. A mix of fresh greens with goat cheese and sweetened, naturally, with honey, it made for a wonderful start and sparked our sense of taste. Being a cold, chilly evening, it felt comforting downing the mains with cups of hot Usta Toddy (not to be confused with the intoxicating type you usually get in Asian countries). This  warm, sour beverage also acts like a neutralizer and shaperns the taste buds between courses (and it doesn't get you tipsy!).
We ended the meal with the Eden Garden dessert. The dish was a treat for the eyes. It featured a selection of exotic fresh fruits, crème bruilee, and a chocolate globe stuffed with ice-cream. The presentation deserves an applause. Hot chocolate sauce is poured onto the globe, placed over a bed of dry ice, and while the globe melts revealing the treat inside it, hot water is poured on the ice creating a spooky white fog.  It's like a scene being played out of Sherlock Holmes and the Deathly Fog.
A fusion of flavours with a Turkish touch, presentation and prompt service is what you'll enjoy at  Doors Freestyle Grill.

Where: Doors Freestyle Grill, Al Seef Street, Dubai Creek
Meal for two: Dhs600
Contact: +97150 7000375

michael@khaleejtimes.com

• Food and Dining