Dubai – November 2023 – “Le Fumoir,” established by Joe Bassili, has been a pillar in Dubai’s culinary landscape since 2011, specializing in the art of smoked salmon. Joe’s journey began alongside Scottish masters, infusing traditional techniques into his craft, relying on natural ingredients to complement his secret process. With over twenty years of experience, “Le Fumoir” has become a trusted name among Dubai’s gastronomes, providing hand-sliced premium smoked salmon to discerning palates.
A Journey Rooted in Family Heritage.Originally from Byblos in Lebanon, Joe Bassili embarked on his smoked salmon odyssey when customs duties hindered his business of importing smoked salmon into Lebanon. Disappointed by the quality available locally, Joe decided to create his own. He honed his skills in Scotland, learning from a couple who ran their own salmon smokehouse in a historic castle using traditional methods.Returning to Beirut, Joe initiated his first fish smoker, a homemade contraption located on the balcony of their family home. This primitive approach allowed him to experiment with the nuances of smoking and lay the foundation for his expertise.
From Balcony to Beirut and Beyond.In 1991, Joe established the Beirut smokehouse, and in 2001, his restaurant in Beirut emerged as a platform to showcase his smoked salmon creations. The Dubai chapter of the journey commenced in 2005 with his first restaurant at Mall of the Emirates, followed by the Dubai smokehouse in 2011.
Crafting Culinary Excellence. “Le Fumoir” distinguishes itself by adhering to the traditions of salmon smoking while implementing innovative techniques. The salmon arrives whole from the Outer Hebrides in Scotland, ensuring quality and freshness. In-house gutting and filleting retain the belly fat, preserving flavor and moisture during the smoking process. Untreated oak wood chips from Stuttgart, Germany, create a fragrant, viscous smoke, ideal for infusing salmon with flavor. The extended smoking duration—24 to 36 hours depending on individual factors—sets “Le Fumoir” apart, ensuring a rich, smoky taste permeates every layer of the fish.
Handcrafted Precision. “Le Fumoir” takes pride in the meticulous hand-slicing process, ensuring each slice is an artful creation. Hand slicing allows for the removal of pin bones, separation of brown meat from pink flesh, and an even distribution of smoky flavor. The result is delicate, paper-thin slices with a balanced marbling of fat, delivering a sweet and smoky flavor.
Experience “Le Fumoir by Joe Bassili”. For over two decades, “Le Fumoir” has been passionately providing its hand-sliced premium smoked salmon to Five-Star Hotels, Award-Winning Chefs, and Food Connoisseurs. Today, “Le Fumoir” is proud to share this distinct and mouthwatering flavor with all who appreciate the art of smoked salmon.
You can find “Le Fumoir” products online (https://shop.lefumoir.co/) and in UAE’s local supermarkets (Waitrose, Spinneys, Carrefour, Choitram, etc.).
Contact Information:
Telephone: +971 4 885 5055
Follow us on Instagram: @le_fumoir_bassili