Last Updated on May 18, 2016 by hungryoungwoman
The Butcher Shop and Grill originated in South Africa and has outlets across Middle Eastern countries. Dubai houses the restaurant chain at Mirdif City Centre, Mall of the Emirates, JBR, and City Walk.
We visited a very busy Butcher Shop and Grill on a weekend to find there were no tables to sit. After a short wait, we were led to a corner table that provided a full view of the restaurant. Not that there was much of a view, but watching families settle back and enjoy was pleasant to watch. Yes, I like people watching. No, I’m not a creep.
Commenting on the service would be unfair and it was understandably slow. Our server brought us some dry bread to nibble on as he left us to decide our order. The bread, to be honest, was quite stale I believe. Moving on, we decided to settle for some Crab Cakes [AED 32] and Scampi (Fried Prawns) [AED 36] with Chicken Quinoa Salad [AED 39] as starters.
The cakes were charming – with the subtle flavour of the crab complimenting the sweet tones of mango salsa underneath. This was devoured in minutes!
I’m a sucker for quinoa, but my guest wasn’t..until she tried the salad and was a convert. The warm slices of chicken and quinoa paired really well with avocado and nuts. I could have this everyday and not be bored.
The mains presented a variety of beef, but we decided to steer clear of that and chose chicken. The Chicken Espetada [AED 59] stood out with its rich flavours of garlic. Simple and delicious. The optional side of carbohydrates is unnecessary as the mains could do better with some rocket salad instead.
The Chicken Breast [AED 46] and Florentina [AED 49] are great as comfort food and served with a side of fries. I also happened to notice an extra side course; Truffle and Mushroom Sauce [AED 18]. Subtle truffle flavor in a creamy mushroom sauce. This would go well with the burgers or fries. Something I should keep in mind if I’m coming back.
The menu’s dessert choices were a disappointment. The cheesecake with its frozen cheese and molten chocolate cake without a molten centre made for a rather sad end.
If I’m coming back: Butcher Shop and Grill does its meat right so that would be the ideal order next time. The beef also seems quite promising and worth a try. The favorites of this meal include the Crab Cakes, Chicken Quinoa Salad, Chicken Espetada and the rich Truffle and Mushroom Sauce.
So tell me, friends, what is your favorite dining spot with family? Have you visited Butcher Shop and Grill?
Until next time, happy eating! xx
