Keeping it classy

3BK is the newest culinary experience to open up at Armani Hotel Dubai - and it has all the makings of the place to be

The first thing that strikes you when you enter the lobby of the Armani Hotel Dubai is the carefully muted lighting that seems to be the standard throughout the building - even in its latest dining destination on the third floor: a 250-seat dinner venue called 3BK.
We expect to describe everything about the restaurant housed in the tallest building in the world in superlatives, but are pleasantly surprised to find that nothing is OTT here. Smiling servers lead us into the spacious (almost cavernous) dining area, where we pick seats next to the floor-to-ceiling windows that give us views of the gorgeous Dubai Fountains.  The contemporary, yet elegant, theme is present in all we see: from the funiture with its polished gold accents to the food, plated to please.  
My partner and I agree to sample their set menu, which offered five starters, three mains and two desserts. It seemed to have something for every kind of dietary preference - and every level of adventure-seeker too (oxtail risotto, anyone?). In the age of individuality, we can only approve!
A full review of the experience can be found below. But it says something when even homemade cashew nut dips and mashed potato sides are worth every morsel.  

Taste - The wild rice salad was a surprising highlight, and the salmon (done to the chef's recommendation) was perfection. Our compliments to the chef! One of the mains, All About Corn, was too bland for our taste, but desserts made up for it. Do not miss the creamy rice pudding!

Ambience - The decor was most tasteful and props must be given for overall design. Though we went on a quiet evening, we can only imagine how alive the space will be when it's a full house. We weren't too crazy about the lighting or club music though - a bit odd for a fine dining space.

Service - We really liked our server, who came across as both accommodating of personal preferences as well as knowledgable about each dish's details. It does add to a diner's experience when the server himself is so enthusiastic about the menu.  

Presentation - Nothing to complain about in this department. Albeit it wasn't anything to write home about, every dish was presented exactly as we'd expect in an establishment such as this one. They were stylish, yet appetising; classy and appealing - all in one.

Value for money - Starters really run the gamut here, priced at anywhere between Dh30-120. A veg main starts at Dh75, while a fried whole sea bass can set you back a cool Dh300. Desserts are in the Dh60 range. For an Armani restaurant, it's not less than we surmised it would be.

AT A GLANCE
Armani Hotel Dubai, The Burj Khalifa, Downtown Dubai
Tel: 04-8886333
Cost for two: Dh500 (approx.)
Rating: 4/5
karen@khaleejtimes.com

• Food and Dining