“If you build it, they will come,” is the oft misquoted line spoken by Kevin Costner’s character in Field of Dreams. Provided the ‘it’ being spoken about is a fountain, then we’d have to agree.
Following on from the widely successful, ‘World’s Largest Choreographed Fountain’ in Downtown Dubai, the UAE now has another record holding water sprinkler.
Located at Dubai’s The Pointe, The Palm Fountain is the largest fountain in the world – spread across 14,000 square feet of sea area. And bring the punters it has.
With a new attraction, The Pointe’s restaurants have scrambled to make the most of the fountain’s regular water and light shows. It now boasts quite the selection; from Asian-style food halls and pizza joints, to more upmarket restaurants like Samajke – which specializes in Arab-style seafood dishes.
But no restaurant can hope to thrive in these challenging times by relying on fountains alone (even a really big one); so views aside is Samajke worth a visit?
Samakje: What’s the vibe?
Okay, so it does have a very pretty view. Samajke is set on the east side of The Pointe, and gives guests front-row views of the fountain. That fountain might annoy some, however; on windy days those sat on the lowest tier can expect a sprinkling. Upstairs has a slightly more cooler vibe, but let’s be honest – if you want to see the fountain, sit close to the fountain.
Inside is light, bright and airy with huge ceilings. Something that would have annoyed us previously (cavernous, would be the correct describing word in this case) is actually a huge boon given social distancing, and we reckon it will prove popular come the warmer months.
Samakje: How’s the food?
Whip out your handy Arabic-to-English dictionary and you’ll see that Samajke roughly translates to ‘fish expert’. So it should come as no surprise as to what the restaurant specializes in…
The menu relies on Mediterranean and Levant influences to upgrade the usual fish and two veg model. The Lobster Kibbeh is an interesting take on the Arab staple; as was the fish tagine. The food is good, interesting (and very fresh).
Samakje: The verdict
A few shows in, and the novelty of sitting underneath the world’s largest fountain has largely worn off. Plus, once you done the obligatory recording for the ‘gram there’s little reason to return for the experience alone.
Fortunately, places like Samajke do exist – as fountain or not, it’s well worth a return visit.
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