Hook & Cook is a newly opened, gem of a seafood restaurant in Sustainable City, Arabian Ranches. Owned and lovingly managed by a husband and wife tag-team (Dubai veterans from the 90’s) of Egyptian origin, the restaurant is beautifully designed with a meticulous attention to detail usually only found in fine dining establishments. Of course, at this time of year, the best place to sit is outside in the courtyard.
The Hook & Cook menu is a (big) one-page affair yet incorporates something for the multiracial community of the ‘Ranches. You’ll find classics like Fish Tacos, and Fish and Chips, on the one hand, and Fish Biryani and Oriental Shrimp Motabak on the other – something for everyone. You’ll also find the more unusual stuff, like Salmon Lasagne, Hamour in Butter Curry, Salmon Risotto, even a Salmon Wellington. And for those who love turf more than the surf, there’s a full section of meaty, and veggie options.
I love-love-loved their Fish and Chips. A pinch of some spice or herb has given this perfectly battered fillet of cod, just a hint of the exotic – superb. It has gone straight to my top three fish and chips in Dubai.
But before I get any further ahead of myself, you must try their starters, specifically the fried shrimps – they’re amazing. At AED90, the Hook & Cook starter sampler represents amazing value for money, as it includes your choice of three of their starters. The other one to try is the fried calamari. Yum.
For a touch of fine dining, try the Mediterranean Salmon, which is served on a bed of eggplant, sundried tomatoes, olives, garlic and chilli ratatouille – OMG!
My daughter, not a seafood person (yet), huffed and puffed and pouted until she was presented with a perfectly cooked (and quite unique) Fillet Mignon for one. Served on a hot plate it comes with a choice of sauces, in addition to a side; hers came with a wonderfully balanced gravy (recommended) with beautiful mashed potatoes.
Our meal was rounded off with sinfully delicious twins, Sticky Date Pudding, and Chocolate Lava Cake – both with Ice Cream.
Hook & Cook is as much about food and ambience, as it is about the genuine hospitality shown by owners Muna and Safwat. I cannot remember the last time my family and I were made to feel so welcome and at home at a restaurant before. This experience was more like visiting close friends or family than a restaurant. So, it’s a unanimous thumbs-up, not just from me, but from my entire family. Hook & Cook, worth a detour.
A quick footnote – H&C delivers throughout the Arabian Ranches area. Food is packed professionally (in paper rather than plastic) to ensure it arrives warm and crisp (within reason).
Waste NOT. Want NOT.
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