Champions

Recommended to share are the amusingly named ‘driving range’ onion rings – a huge mound of crunchy hoops with spicy tomato and garlic dips Discuss this article

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From Time Out Dubai Eating Out 2007

In the depths of the JW Marriott, you’ll find Champions, an American-style saloon bar that promises ‘Good times, good food, good sports’. It certainly delivers the latter, having not only a multitude of TVs that show a variety of matches (sometimes all at once), but also two pool tables, arcade games and an eclectic array of framed memorabilia. Unfortunately, despite the friendly staff, the ‘good times’ depend on what’s being screened, meaning the bar can go from lively to deserted at the drop of a hat.

And what about the good food? The menu stubbornly sticks to the sporting theme, with courses labelled ‘starting line-up’ through to ‘finishing line’. Recommended to share are the amusingly named ‘driving range’ onion rings – a huge mound of crunchy hoops with spicy tomato and garlic dips. The ‘bases loaded’ burger is also a solid choice – a variety of toppings are offered and it is cooked to your taste. Entertainingly, this dish arrives with a precariously balanced stand, which holds two sauces and a cone for your fries. For vegetarians, the portobello grilled vegetable sandwich is a tad greasy, but generous in its mushroom, pepper and onion filling, and almost feels like a healthy choice (the accompanying fries ensure it’s not).

Don’t expect much from the desserts – the signature ‘Babe Ruth’ sundae is a no-nonsense three scoops of ice cream in a pint glass. This aside, there is a decent range of beers and an adequate wine list. If you want above-average pub fare with a good view of your favourite team, you can’t go wrong.

• Previous reviews
  • 26 March,2008- reviewed by Jeremy Lawrence
  • 30 April,2006- reviewed by Time Out Dubai

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