JW’s Steakhouse

Sophisticated steaks at the JW Marriott Discuss this article

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The clubby leather chairs and starched tablecloths at JW’s send out a clear message about what to expect: simple, old-fashioned and very good grub with discreet, knowledgeable service. Food trends can come and go, but if you want a big, juicy steak, crisp fries and a varied wine list, JW’s is a consistent favourite – as evidenced by the brass name plates on the tables, listing its many devoted regulars.

The no-fuss menu lists exactly the sort of expensive comfort food you’d hope for: oysters or foie gras, followed by a bewildering variety of steak cuts, from Australian grass-fed fillet to Wagyu sirloin, as well as a few lamb and seafood dishes. Vegetarian choices, perhaps unsurprisingly for a steakhouse, are limited; veggie diners will lack the relish their carnivorous companions enjoy when attacking their perfectly cooked meat.

While the main reason people come here is the steak, which is undeniably good, aged just so, served rare and accompanied by two dainty sauces on the side – it is the foie gras that is most memorable. Sure, your conscience may hurt a bit afterwards, but boy is it worth it for this unctuous little pile of seared goose liver, silkily rare in the middle, melt-in-the-mouth velvety on the outside, sitting on a dollop of onion marmalade and a sticky criss-cross of balsamic reduction.

After two courses like this, it’s with a sense of hopeful resignation that the waiters present a cake stand piled with chocolatey, creamy delicacies to choose from. The more gluttonous guest may manage a few bites; most, though, will leave the restaurant defeated, but happily so.

• Previous reviews
  • 30 March,2009- reviewed by Time Out Dubai staff
  • 26 March,2008- reviewed by Time Out Dubai Staff
  • 12 March,2007- reviewed by Time Out Dubai Staff
  • 31 January,2007- reviewed by Time Out Dubai Staff
  • 30 April,2006- reviewed by Time Out Dubai
  • 01 February,2004- reviewed by Rob Orchard
  • 01 July,2002- reviewed by Carolyn Robb
  • 01 March,2002- reviewed by Carolyn Robb

Time Out reviews restaurants anonymously and pays for meals. Of course, we cannot guarantee the accuracy or independence of user reviews.