Bank on change at this new branch outlet

Left Bank at Souk Madinat Jumeirah has been a popular venue since it opened five years ago. But now fans of the franchise have another – and in my opinion better – venue to frequent at Souk Al Bahar in Downtown Burj Dubai.

For mid-week it was surprisingly busy. When I arrived to find only a handful of people it didn't look good, but the crowd soon picked up, providing a lively atmosphere. The huge wooden doors are invitingly opened as you walk in with stools lining the bar on the right.

The restaurant is divided into two sections – the area round the corner from the bar has cream-coloured leather seats set higher to the table, making it better for friends than the intimate maroon velvet sofas on the other side.

Although the perennial fish and chips have remained, albeit as a starter this time, thankfully the tired Left Bank menu has changed. Gone is the boring burger, replaced by the house speciality filet of beef.

I started with the bruschetta with cherry tomatoes and feta cheese. The bread was thinly sliced with just a hint of garlic and while good, I expected the topping to be mixed rather than whole tomatoes still on the vine.

Next up was the mixed souvlaki – three skewers of chicken, lamb and beef – served with Arabic bread and dips, which was artistically presented on pristine white plates. The meat was excellently cooked and the warm bread and raita were great complements. But avoid the salsa unless you like chilli ketchup. My guest's fish and chips did not disappoint and the curry mayo was just right.

The choice of dessert was disappointing compared to the array of starters and mains with only three options and a special to choose from. I opted for the strawberry crème brulée with basil ice cream, which might sound like a strange combination but the basil was subtle enough to complement not overpower, while my guest had chocolate and hazelnut cake with toffee sauce. The crème brulée was excellent with a thin crispy layer covering a thick pudding underneath but the cake would have been better with more chocolate and less hazelnut.

All this is set off with an extensive drinks list. There is so much choice, you could have something different every night of the month and still not try everything.

Despite not having a terrace like other venues in Souk Al Bahar, Left Bank has certainly raised the bar to give the Madinat branch something to aim for during its renovation this summer.

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