A method for performing host based read cache for storage area networks (SANs) supporting Non-Volatile Memory Express over Fabrics (NVMeF) with validation. The method includes upon a first read operation from a client system of a storage array, receiving metadata with a read response regarding location of data subject to the read operation. The method also includes performing, by the client system, direct NVMeF reads from a namespace offset from the metadata. The direct NVMeF reads bypass a software stack of the storage array. The method further includes upon receiving a data block at the client system, using a signature from the metadata to perform validation on the data.