Deck 13, located in Dhanmondi, has solidified its status as a popular destination, known for its tantalizing steaks and seafood. It has garnered a devoted following among those who crave the delightful blend of surf and turf.
Receiving considerable acclaim for its unique location on the 13th floor and its unwavering dedication to crafting a unique ambiance, the restaurant has effectively addressed a gap in Dhanmondi by presenting an array of exceptional steaks.
“The concept for our establishment was to offer a variety of delicious steaks and seafood,” says its Managing Director AHM Moinul Islam.
Interestingly, the idea to incorporate seafood came to them after they had already settled on the name of the place.
Food
One of the appetizers we started with was the cream of mushroom soup, crafted from a rich blend of chicken broth, fresh mushrooms, onions, butter, and garlic.
The velvety roux added a soulful and comforting quality, enveloping our senses, while the fresh mushrooms provided a delightful touch.
However, excess salt in the mix made the soup noticeably salty. Each spoonful seemed to dominate the overall flavor profile, leaving predominantly salty notes on the palate.
Moving on from the soup, we were presented with a house salad featuring smoked chicken and cocktail dressing.
Although our expectation for a more flavorful salad fell short, there was room for improvement in terms of taste. Nonetheless, the chicken itself was tender and enjoyable.
Next in line was their BBQ chicken dish, accompanied by a side of veggies, fried rice, and a mouthwatering BBQ sauce.
The chicken was tender, juicy, and bursting with flavor. Yet, the real star of the show was the irresistibly sweet and savory BBQ sauce, enhancing the taste of every element on the plate - from the chicken to the rice and veggies.
Following the chicken dishes, a plate of cheesy baked fish made a delightful appearance. This mouthwatering creation featured a perfectly baked dory fish, enveloped in a layer of gooey mozzarella cheese.
The mozzarella took center stage, overpowering other flavors. However, experimenting with the addition of vegetables and fried rice could create a more diverse taste. If you're a cheese enthusiast, you'll thoroughly enjoy this dory dish from start to finish.
The Rib eye steak, prepared medium-rare, could have been slightly more tender. Expertly seasoned with a delightful combination of butter, garlic, salt, and black pepper, it offered a deliciously savory taste in every bite.
The sides, including satisfying mashed potatoes and grilled veggies, were accompanied by a flavorful sauce with a rich umami texture. Undoubtedly, the steak, along with its delectable sides, stole the spotlight.
The price range for a meal at Deck 13 ranges from Tk495 to Tk3150, excluding VAT.
Ambience
Located on the 13th floor of Navana GH Heights in Dhanmondi, Deck 13 crafts an ambiance that evokes the essence of a "deck." Wooden floors and charming chairs on wheels contribute to this maritime atmosphere.
Upon entering the restaurant, you'll instantly sense the feeling of stepping onto a ship's deck.
Adorning the walls are beautifully painted ships sailing on the sea, introducing a touch of flair and drama to the overall atmosphere.
Challenges
Deck 13, in operation since 2017, witnessed a 15% price increase in March 2020, attributed to the pandemic's impact, inflationary pressures, and the prevailing economic conditions, as explained by Islam.
"We observed a modest slowdown in business during December and January; however, we maintain optimism that February will mark a turnaround. With the upcoming surge of celebratory occasions, we anticipate a positive boost in sales," shared SM Auli Ahmed, the marketing manager.
Ahmed emphasized that, over the course of six years, they successfully cultivated a robust and loyal customer base.
Verdict
We strongly recommend indulging in their delectable rib eye steak and the mouthwatering BBQ chicken – both absolute must-tries!
The ambience is truly enchanting and one-of-a-kind, ensuring a memorable experience as soon as you step into the restaurant. However, it would be even more delightful if they could contemplate expanding the space slightly to accommodate a larger number of guests.
While the price range leans towards the higher side, the quality of the steak meal makes it well worth considering.