3 Fils is one of those darling restaurants which I find difficult to write about without pissing people off. And that’s because, although I think it’s good, I don’t think it’s nearly as good as all the hype. Located in the picturesque Jumeirah Fishing Harbour off Jumeirah Beach Road, you’ll easily walk past 3 Fils’s unassuming entrance. I did, twice. Step in though and you’ll find the funkiest interior this side of…um, Zengo (sorry, I just had to throw that in). It’s very nightclubby, but in a casual way. The only problem with the fully-enclosed 3 Fils interior is that you can’t see any of the beautiful harbour. Pity.
I met Akmal Anuar, chef and co-founder of 3 Fils, when he was the head chef of Zengo some years ago. Humble yet self-confident (hallmarks of a great chef), I always felt he would branch out on his own one day. If there is one thing which has impressed me most about 3 Fils, it is the way he has incorporated snooty fine dining fusion cuisine into a tangibly youthful, casual dining menu. It’s one of the main reasons I think people come here. Yes, and the fact that the food consistently good. Is it great though? Some of it is but some isn’t (hence my, it’s good but not so good comment).
I loved the smallish, tapas-sized portion of perfectly cooked Black Cod, even if it was a little on the sweetish side but I found the sushi (Spicy Tuna and Dragon) to be absolute abominations (I’m not into tarted up sushi).
Nor was I that impressed with my son’s burger (Wagyu Overload); fast food Shake Shack and SALT burgers are miles better.
Service is professional rather than friendly…with a smile thrown in every now and then for good measure. Yes, prices are affordable when compared to Play, Zuma and…Zengo (did it again), and probably on par with venues targeting the same segment like Carnival by Tresind but I can’t help think that many may struggle with a measured meal for two costing around AED300. And remember, that’s without a drop of anything intoxicating. All that said, 3 Fils is a fun venue, not least because of the huge talent in the kitchen. Just remember, it’s good but not that good, and I’m sure you’ll have a great time.
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Xerxes physically visits (and dines at) each and every venue he reviews. He pays in full for whatever he and his companions eat and drink. Xerxes accepts no money, gifts, discounts or free meals in return for reviews. What you have read was not influenced in any way by the venue. Join me on Instagram @ravenousxerxes or email me on: xerxes@dellara.com