Something for everyone

DESPITE the cosmopolitan allure of the Seef Area, Adliya still manages to reign supreme when it comes to dining out in the kingdom thanks to its enormous array of eateries.

Situated on the corner of Adliya’s restaurant district, Block 338, is an aptly-named venue, 338. This bohemian oasis has perfected the art of al fresco dining amid rolling gardens dotted with lanterns, rugs, bamboo seating and a reputation for a lively evening.

As the weather was unpredictably wet the night I visited this well-known gem, I opted to sit inside. The décor is chic, modern and classy with large mirrors mounted on the wall amidst a hanging chandelier of purple flowers and candles.

I was led to my table by Thomas, a friendly and very knowledgeable waiter, whose welcoming smile set the tone for the rest of the evening.

The menu combines Mediterranean and European elements to produce modern tapas-inspired original recipes. Although the menu isn’t particularly long, there is definitely something on there for everyone.

I started with a seafood combination of salmon skewers (BD6.700) and crispy baby squid (BD4.900). To say the salmon tasted divine is an understatement, it was drizzled in a tangy sauce and practically melted in my mouth.

The squid was also a winner. Prepared in a delectable batter, the seafood sensation arrived hot and tasted so fresh you could be forgiven for thinking it had just been plucked from the ocean.

After enjoying the dulcet tones from the laid-back CD playing in the background during a perfectly-timed breather between courses, the main arrived.

I ordered a tenderloin steak (BD18.900), prepared medium, accompanied by a side order of grilled sweet potatoes and chilli broccoli.

As its name suggests, tenderloin is greatly desired for being the most tender cut of beef. Several steaks are actually cut from this region, the Filet Mignon, Chateaubriand, and Tournedos. The extreme tenderness of these steaks often comes at the cost of the flavour, but not at 338.

It was cooked beautifully, piping hot, slightly pink in the middle and so very, very tender and juicy. The side order proved the perfect pairing for the steak, each flavour complimented the others and despite the chilli broccoli making my nose run a little, it was a taste sensation.

It is often the case that I eat too much during a meal and forget to leave room for dessert. However, this time I did leave space and the sticky toffee pudding I rounded off my meal with was spectacular.

I wasn’t even planning on having dessert but when Thomas told me it was not to be missed, I believed him ... I’m glad I did.

Sweet, soft and moreish are just some of the words to describe this delectable dessert, which was accompanied by a lush vanilla ice cream, all for BD3.

If by some miracle you haven’t already visited this eatery, stop reading this review and do it now, thank me later.

338 is open daily from noon-2am.