What's On Brunch Guide October 2021

in

th eU

AE

POCKET GUIDE

Yo u

r gu

ide to

t uri o v our fa

s he c n ru b e

Extraordinary Dusit Brunch

Here is your Friday brunch that has everything you ever wanted and where each dish is served with passion.

Urban Kitchen at Dusit Thani Abu Dhabi entices you with expansive global selections of freshest seafood, live cooking and carving stations, fantastic sushi station, irresistible savory dessert spread and abundant choices of various cuisines that highlight our signature restaurants, Benjarong and Namak.

Welcome reception at Orchid Lounge at noon.

AED 270* per person including unlimited soft drinks AED 400* per person including unlimited house beverages AED 90* per child including unlimited soft beverages.

A special 30% off on brunch is applicable until 29th October 2021.

For reservations, contact us at 02 698 8137 or on reservation.table@dusit.com *All prices are in UAE Dirham and inclusive of all applicable service charges, local fees and taxes. Other terms and conditions apply.

Editor-in-Chief

Obaid Humaid Al Tayer

Managing Partner & Group Editor lan Fairservice

Head of Content – What’s On Laura Coughlin | laura.coughlin@motivate.ae Deputy Editor Elise Kerr | elise.kerr@motivate.ae Online Reporter Miles Buckeridge | miles.buckeridge@motivate.ae Online Reporter Lauren Fletcher | lauren.fletcher@motivate.ae Junior Online Reporter Aarti Saundalkar | aarti@motivate.ae Senior Video Editor Surajit Dutta | surajit@motivate.ae Content Creative Artist Joachim Guay | joachim.guay@motivate.ae Web Developer Firoz Kaladi | firoz@motivate.ae Art Director Sheila Deocareza | sheila@motivate.ae Junior Designer Remy Thokchom | thokchom.remy@motivate.ae General Manager – Production Sunil Kumar | sunil@motivate.ae Assistant Production Manager Binu Purandaran | binu@motivate.ae Production Supervisor Venita Pinto | venita@motivate.ae

WELCOME Bring on brunch What’s your obsession? Maybe it’s a band, a TV show, or a sporting team. Whatever it may be, we reckon the odd obsession – as long as it’s a healthy obsession – isn’t too bad a thing. Here at What’s On, we have our own, unashamed obsession: brunch. We don’t just like brunch; we adore it, it’s our life, our love, our obsession.

This month, we’re overjoyed to say, we’re declaring brunch season open. And as the seasoned, expert, obsessive brunchers we are, we’ve put together a list to take your brunch to the next level. Behold, 50 brilliant UAE brunches. Enjoy!

Chief Commercial Officer Anthony Milne | anthony@motivate.ae Publisher, Dubai David Burke | davidb@motivate.ae Group Sales Manager Varsha Bhatia | varsha@motivate.ae Senior Sales Manager Taran Singh | taran.singh@motivate.ae Violeta Botorogeanu | violeta@motivate.ae Digital Sales Director Sabir Khodabux | sabir.khodabux@motivate.ae WHATSON.AE | WHATSONSAUDIARABIA.COM

Head Office: Media One Tower, PO Box 2331, Dubai, UAE Tel +971 4 427 3000; Fax +971 4 428 2270 Email: motivate@motivate.ae Dubai Media City: SD 2-94, 2nd Floor, Building 2, Dubai, UAE, Tel: +971 4 390 3550, Fax: +971 4 390 4845 Abu Dhabi: PO Box 43072, UAE. Tel: +971 2 6772005, Fax: +971 2 6573489. E-mail: editor-wo@motivate.ae London: Acre House, 11/15 William Road, London NW1 3ER, UK. E-mail: motivateuk@motivate.ae

BRUNCH GUIDE 2021

3

Cooper’s Friday Brunch @Park Rotana, Abu Dhabi This is one of the capital’s favourite brunches.

Explore all your brunch favourites from various food & drink stations. Enjoy unlimited roasted prime rib, braised brisket, fish & chips, shepherd’s pie and more with live BBQ stations at The Backyard@Cooper’s and of course, bottomless beverages. Featuring both outdoor & indoor seating with live entertainment showcasing DJ Danny on the decks, this is surely a fun brunch destination.

Prices start at AED 210, available every Friday from 12noon to 4pm.

For bookings, please call Cooper’s +971 2 657 3325

BRUNCH GUIDE 2021

5

ANANTARA EASTERN MANGROVES The Glocal Brunch – at Ingredients restaurant – serves up to 200 global dishes infused with local favourites, from tender meats and assorted salads to a lavish spread of sweets and unlimited drinks. And now, Ingredients restaurant is hyped up with live music.

Anantara Eastern Mangroves, Sheikh Zayed Street, Fri noon to 4.30pm, Dhs245 with soft drinks, Dhs395 with house drinks. Tel: (056) 503 5121, @anantaraeasternmangroves

6

BRUNCH GUIDE 2021

ANNEX The Amapiano Brunch at Annex brings the soulful beats of Cape Town streets to the capital’s Friday nights. Amapiano is an African musical style that blends house, deep jazz, hip hop and lounge beats, creating the perfect soundtrack for an alfresco rave-up. Familiar ‘decknician’ DJ EYJEY is in charge of loading up the bass canons, whilst you drink-in those dreamy sunset marina views. Girls and guys can gather around the fire pit and enjoy an esteemed stream of free-flowing chic eats and beverages.

Annex, The Abu Dhabi EDITION, Al Bateen Marina, Fri two seatings 5pm to 8pm, 8.30pm to 11.30pm, three-hour package Dhs288. Tel: (02) 208 0000, @annexabudhabi

8

BRUNCH GUIDE 2021

BAB AL QASR Bab Al Qasr Hotel’s ‘Splash the Brunch’ takes place at Artisan Kitchen on Fridays between 1pm and 4pm. Things proceed much as you’d expect at a five-star hotel’s international buffet brunch. After the gastro-grazing however, guests will have the opportunity to get 2-for-1 on selected spa treatments. And for just Dhs670, you get one night’s hotel stay, breakfast, Splash the Brunch, pool & beach access, early check-in, late check-out and free upgrade where available, for two people.

Bab Al Qasr Hotel, W Corniche Road, 1pm to 4pm, Dhs249 with soft drinks, Dhs349 with house drinks. Tel: (056) 9922078. @babalqasrhotel

10

BRUNCH GUIDE 2021

BUBBALICIOUS Bubbalicious has earned a place in the UAE’s brunching hall of fame by mastering that allimportant trifactor of great food and drink, strong ambiance and outstanding service. It’s an international round-up of cuisine, so there’s plenty for even the most particular of palates to fall in love with. From the sea, find fresh sushi, oysters and other seafood along with a handsome array of condiment companions. There are live-cooking stations, a roast carvery and grill selections, gourmet garden-plucked salads, and dietary requirement-compliant options.

There’s also now a Thursday evening sitting (7pm to 10pm) with a promotion which means the house package is currently just Dhs250.

Fairways, Westin Abu Dhabi Golf Resort & Spa, Sas Al Nakhl, Thur 7pm to 10pm Dh150 with soft drinks, Dhs250 with house drinks; Fri 1pm to 4pm Dhs225 with soft drinks, Dhs395 with house drinks. Tel: (02) 616 9999, @westinabudhabi

12

BRUNCH GUIDE 2021

FAIRMONT BAB AL BAHR Start the weekend off right with a Thursday night brunch at Marco’s New York Italian featuring freshly baked pizzas, pastas and mouth-watering desserts at the only New York-style rendezvous in the capital. Alternatively, head to the hotel’s CuiScene for one of the capital’s finest weekend smorgasbord feasts with an international collection of plates from the hotel’s heavy-hitting restaurants, including Marco’s Italian. Live cooking stations, a big selection of seafood, street food and carved meats depict the highlights.

Fairmont Bab Al Bahr, Thur: 6pm to 10pm, Dhs199 with soft drinks, Dhs299 with house drinks, Dhs369 with bubbles. Fri at CuiScene: 12.30pm to 4pm, Dhs249 with soft drinks, Dhs374 with house drinks. Tel: (02) 654 3238. marcosabudhabi.com and @cuiscene.abudhabi

14

BRUNCH GUIDE 2021

INTERCONTINENTAL ABU DHABI We went to try the new Duo brunch at the InterContinental and were instantly smitten. It’s held across two of its flagship dining venues — the popular Pan-Asian restaurant Cho Gao Marina Walk, and the world class churrascaria, at Chamas. Fill up on flame-cooked meats, dainty dim sum, seafood salads and some other exciting curveballs (shout out to the chicken and rice stand chilli sauce).

InterContinental Abu Dhabi, Al Bateen, Saturdays 12.30pm to 4pm, Dhs249 with soft drinks, Dhs349 with house drinks. Tel: (800) 423 463, abudhabi.intercontinental.com

16

BRUNCH GUIDE 2021

SHANGRI-LA QARYAT AL BERI ABU DHABI

Sofra Bld’s brunch extravagant buffet brunch features all-time international favourites including grilled seafood and prime barbecued meaty cuts. There are pizza-making indulgences, sushi and mains from the highlights of Arabian, Asian and Mediterranean cuisine and selection of creative concoctions from the brunch bar “Shangri-Lab”. Their dessert island dazzles with a chocolate fountain, ice cream and fresh pastries. After brunch concludes, head to the beach lounge where drink deals and entertainment accompany you through the sunset hours. And, by way of a cheeky little value-added bolt on, all packages include beach access.

Shangri-La Qaryat Al Beri Abu Dhabi, Fri 1pm to 4pm, Dhs279 with soft drinks, Dhs349 with house drinks, Dhs459 bubbles. Tel: (02) 509 8555. shangri-la.com/abudhabi

18

BRUNCH GUIDE 2021

SAADIYAT ROTANA RESORT AND VILLAS The Market Brunch at Saadiyat Rotana Resort and Villas is already known on Abu Dhabi’s dining circuit for finding that fabled equilibrium between epic cuisine and five-star vibes. And as of October 1, it will be back for a new season with dedicated barbecue stations offering a connoisseur’s collection of fine cuts, grilled seafood and char-crisped sides, a huge salad bar offering clever combinations of fresh botanical flavours, and vast selection of creamy cheese and expert-cured cold cuts. There’s also an epic seafood melange, multiple dessert stalls, and a special brunch station for the kids.

Saadiyat Rotana Resorts & Villas, Every Fri 1pm to 4pm, Dhs390 with soft drinks, Dhs515 with house drinks, Dhs615 with bubbles. Dhs195 for children kids 6-11 years. Tel: (02) 697 0000. rotanatimes.com

20

BRUNCH GUIDE 2021

URBAN KITCHEN Take your palate on a whistle-stop tour of gourmet international flavours via the live cooking stations and the kitchens of Dusit Thani’s top restaurants at the Extraordinary Dusit Brunch.

There’s south-east Asian input from the award-winning Benjarong and reinvented Indian classics from the skilled chefs of the award-winning Namak.

Dusit Thani Abu Dhabi, Fri 12.30pm to 4pm, Dhs270 with soft drinks, Dhs400 with house drinks, Dhs90 for kids. Tel: (02) 698 8137, @dusitthaniad

BRUNCH GUIDE 2021

21

W ABU DHABI – YAS ISLAND The popular multi-kitchen B.I.G. brunch at Garage has returned to W Abu Dhabi – Yas Island.

Garage is the high-concept eatery at W Abu Dhabi – Yas Island overlooking the Iconic Yas Marina circuit. It features five distinct zones each with their own culinary focus. It’s like having brunch from five different restaurants simultaneously. With Asian options, Levantine cuisine, meat feasts, mezze, Japanese-Peruvian and ‘Tarts from the Van’, enjoy cold beverages from the signature ‘Tap On Wheels’ cart as the resident DJ creates the perfect brunch vibe. Go B.I.G. or go home, indeed.

W Abu Dhabi – Yas Island, Fri 1pm to 4pm, Dhs279 with soft drinks, Dhs379 with house drinks and Dhs529 bubbles. Tel: (02) 656 0000. @wabudhabi

22

BRUNCH GUIDE 2021

5 Culinary Hubs. 11 Beverage Taps. 1 BIG Brunch.

Go BIG every weekend with Booming Beats and Banging Bites.

A Mezze spread and Asian f lavors. Meat cuts from the Vault and drinks on Tap. Go B.I.G or Go Home!

Every Friday | 1PM to 4PM AED 279 Dry Package AED 379 Spirited Package AED 529 Sparkling Package

W Abu Dhabi - Yas Island +971 2 656 0000 wabudhabi.dining@whotels.com wabudhabiyasisland.com /@WAbuDhabi Terms and conditions apply.

THE MARKET BRUNCH Every Friday | 1PM - 4:30PM

Choose your market journey, whether you want to slide by the salad bar and circle around the daiquiri tuk tuk or sizzle around the hot & smokey corner while getting buzzed by the juniper bar – your steps will be counted

Starting from AED 269* per person LIVE COOKING STATIONS | UNLIMITED DRINKS | KIDS SOCIAL | ODD BINS WINE EXPERIENCE | LIVE ENTERTAINMENT *Terms and conditions apply.

+971 2 208 6900 dineatgraphos@hilton.com

GRAPHOS SOCIAL KITCHEN HILTON ABU DHABI YAS ISLAND

BRUNCH GUIDE 2021

25

ADVERTISEMENT

LET’S BRUNCH

Celebrate the return of brunch season at The Ritz-Carlton, Dubai, JBR

Saigon Social Brunch Location: Blue Jade, The RitzCarlton, Dubai, JBR When: Thursdays, 8pm to 11pm Prices: Dhs249 with soft drinks; Dhs398 with Asian cocktails and house drinks. Over 12s only.

Saigon Social takes diners on a culinary journey across Vietnam.

Guests will enjoy traditional dishes from Ha Long Bay, Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City and beyond. Dishes have been lovingly curated by Chef Ta Van, who aims to bring the spirit of his hometown to Dubai’s shores.

Menu highlights include Pho Bo (Vietnamese national noodle soup), Cá Nướng Lá sen (ginger lotus sea bass), Bò lúc lắc (stir fried beef tenderloin), and Bánh Cuon Nhân

26

BRUNCH GUIDE 2021

Tôm Hùm (homemade fresh rice paper rolls with lobster meat, shiitake mushroom and lime fish sauce). Complete with crafted drinks and live entertainment, including a fusion take on the hand pan, guests should expect a lively and unforgettable Thursday night.

Call (0)4 3186150 or email dine.dubai@ritzcarlton.com bluejadedubai

London Social Brunch Location: Caravan, The RitzCarlton, Dubai, JBR When: Fridays, 1pm to 4pm Prices: Dhs395 with soft drinks; Dhs495 with signature summer cups and house drinks; Dhs650 with premium sparkling; half price for children 6 to 12 years Welcome to the very best of Britain’s capital, where the exotic flavours and spices of Brick Lane and the Arabesque charm of Edgeware Road, meet the foodie paradise of Borough Market across 12 live cooking stations.

London’s favourites are complemented by British cocktails, craft beers, live UK tunes and and a stunning garden setting.

Call (0)4 3186150 or email dine.dubai@ritzcarlton.com londonsocialdubai

For bookings or more information, call (0)4 3186150 or email dine.dubai@ritzcarlton.com

BRUNCH GUIDE 2021

27

ALICI Alici on Bluewaters Island is breezing onto Dubai’s brunch scene with a distinct weekend brunch experience. The acclaimed seafood restaurant offers ‘Beautiful Brunch’ on Fridays and Saturdays from 1pm to 4pm, featuring a specially-curated a la carte menu as well as crudo (raw seafood), antipasti, main courses, desserts, Italian grapes and more.

Alici, Bluewaters, Fridays and Saturdays, various timings, Dhs395 with soft drinks, Dhs495 with house drinks, Dhs595 with premium Italian sparkling. Tel: (04) 275 2577. alici.com

ANTIKA Remember when weekends were spent wishing your parents would take you to the fairground? Well, the wait is over as Antika takes diners on a merry-go-round of Lebanese dishes and drinks every Friday. No, the carousel horses adorning the restaurant walls aren’t for riding, but the live musicians, in-house DJ and belly dancers should provide enough entertainment during the 2pm to 6pm brunch. Book it, you owe it to your younger self.

Antika, Al Fattan Currency House, DIFC, Fri 2pm to 6pm, Dhs220 with soft drinks, Dhs320 with house drinks, Dhs420 premium drinks. Tel: (050) 735 9177. antikarbar.ae

28

BRUNCH GUIDE 2021

ASIL You’ll be welcomed at the Asil Oriental Friday brunch with a Tarbouch, a red traditional hat, that the team hope you’ll wear throughout brunch. The menu, meanwhile, is designed to be shared, where Turkish spices, Lebanese flavours and Moroccan tastes combine. You’ll start with an assortment of Oriental rolls, such as Kisir roasted pepper roll, avocado prawns marine and midye dolma (mussels stuffed with Turkish rice), swiftly followed by Turkish pie topped with tomato sauce and yogurt garlic, mini Lebanese chicken shawarma and falafel sandwiches. Main courses include grill platters of kebabs, shish taouk and beef tenderloin, finishing off with a range of exciting desserts.

Asil, Rixos Premium Dubai JBR, Fri 12.30pm to 4.30pm, Dhs350 with soft drinks, Dhs450 with house drinks. Tel: (04) 520 0055. asilrestaurant.com

30

BRUNCH GUIDE 2021

ASIA ASIA So nice they named it twice. The Pier 7 star is shining brighter than ever with reservations regularly filling up weeks ahead. As the temperature cools, the restaurant increases capacity by reopening the magnificent terrace that looks out across the Marina. Dishes include freshly prepared sushi, tempura prawns, black cod and Asian-marinated beef tenderloin.

The drinks are always good, the views are even better.

Dubai Marina, Fri 2pm to 5pm, Dhs400 with soft drinks, Dhs500 with house drinks, Dhs600 bubbles, Dhs700 premium bubbles.

Tel: (04) 276 5900. asia-asia.com

BRUNCH GUIDE 2021

31

BAB AL SHAMS The sprawling desert oasis in Bab Al Shams hosts two brunches every weekend. The Garden Brunch returns on Fridays while the Picnic Brunch shines on Saturdays. The Al Forsan gardens has tables placed both indoors and out and brings a live magician, pony and camel rides and a petting zoo together for little ones while big kids can tuck in to an extensive menu from live food stations.

Al Forsan, Bab Al Shams Desert Resort & Spa, Fri Garden Brunch, 1pm to 4pm, Dhs350 soft drinks, Dhs545 house drinks, Dhs550 soft drinks pool package, Dhs745 house drinks pool package. Sat Picnic Brunch, 1pm to 4pm, Dhs260 soft drinks, Dhs455 house drinks, Dhs450 soft drinks pool package, Dhs645 house drinks pool package. Tel: (04) 809 6194. babalshams.com

32

BRUNCH GUIDE 2021

LET'S TAKE IT OUTDOORS Join us every weekend at Al Forsan Garden for indulgent afternoons of fun, flavour and delightful live entertainment.

Picnic Brunch

Garden Brunch

Every Saturday | 1 PM to 4 PM AED 260 per person inclusive of soft beverages AED 450 per person inclusive of Picnic Brunch and pool access

Every Friday | 1 PM to 4 PM AED 350 per person inclusive of soft beverages AED 550 per person inclusive of Friday Brunch and pool access

Terms & Conditions Children up to 3 years dine with compliments | 50% off for kids aged 4 to 11 years Inclusive of live entertainment and kids activities Additional 195 per person for house beverages package

restaurants@babalshams.com

+971 4 809 6194

babalshamshotel

BLA BLA Bla Bla remains the name on everyone’s lips and if you head down on a Saturday, any talking will be through mouthfuls of sushi.

The venue’s new brunch serves up individual grazing trays laden with California rolls, crispy rice avocado, chicken gyoza, Japanese spinach salad and more, while desserts take the form of refreshing fruit salads and popsicles. Wash it all down with three hours of unlimited beverages and let the talk turn to nonsense.

The Beach opposite JBR, Sat 12pm to 3pm, Dhs250 with soft drinks, Dhs350 with house drinks. Tel: (04) 584 4111. blabladubai.ae

34

BRUNCH GUIDE 2021

BLUE JADE Banh mi? Yep. Bun bo hue? You bet. Chicken noodle soup? Pho sho. Vietnamese fans throw your chopsticks in the air as Blue Jade brings the Saigon Social to JBR. The beautiful Ritz-Carlton Dubai, JBR restaurant takes diners on a north-to-south journey like no other by transforming street food favourites into elegant dishes.

Blue Jade, The Ritz-Carlton, Dubai, JBR, Thu 8pm to 11pm, Dhs249 with soft drinks, Dhs398 with house drinks. Tel: (04) 3186150. bluejadedubai.com

BRUNCH GUIDE 2021

35

BULL AND BEAR The Bull of Wall Street is Bull and Bear’s classy – and What’s On Award-winning – eightiesthemed weekly brunch. On the menu you’ll find premium signature dishes such as wagyu beef tartare with slow-cooked egg yolk and saffron aioli, beef rossini accompanied by foie gras and truffle sauce, prawn cocktail and the infamous ‘ring the bell’ dessert.

Bull & Bear, Waldorf Astoria DIFC, DIFC, Fri 1pm to 5pm, Dhs290 with soft drinks, Dhs450 with house beverages, Dhs750 premium bubbles. Tel: (04) 515 9888. @bullandbear.difc

36

BRUNCH GUIDE 2021

Channel your inner Jordan Belfort and celebrate the weekend in style.

“The Bull of Wall Street”, paying homage to the Martin Scorsese film “The Wolf of Wall Street” shall be honored by your presence at Bull & Bear.

The brunch references famous moments from the movie and the swish restaurant is kitted out for an ‘80s trader extravaganza.

Every Friday | 1 PM to 5 PM AED 290 inclusive of soft beverages AED 450 inclusive of house beverages AED 750 inclusive of bubbles

Burj Daman, Al Mustaqbal Street, DIFC, PO Box 507251, Dubai, United Arab Emirates +971 (0)4 515 9888 | Bullandbear@waldorfastoria.com | www.waldorfastoria.com/DIFC Bullandbear.DIFC

BUDDHA BAR The wait was finally over in June as Buddha Bar finally rolled out its first brunch – and boy did it hit the ground running. And, with dishes such as oysters with aji amarillo vinaigrette, lobster dumplings with a creamy chilli crab sauce and wok-fried Australian beef tenderloin with szechuan sauce, it has definitely been worth the wait. The 7th Heaven Brunch runs every Friday from 1pm to 4pm inside the cavernous Dubai Marina spot.

Buddha Bar, Grosvenor House, Dubai Marina, Fri 1pm to 4pm, Dhs450 with soft drinks, Dhs525 beer and wine, Dhs625 premium drinks. Tel: (04) 317 6000. buddhabar-dubai.com

38

BRUNCH GUIDE 2021

CÉ LA VI Tuck into Burj Khalifa views and a contemporary Euro-Asian menu 54 floors up the Address Sky View Hotel. Be sure to book ahead early to secure a spot on the terrace for a table so close to the Dubai icon you could reach out and touch it.

Menu highlights include scallops in brown butter, dry-aged rib-eye and roasted black cod. There are excellent vegetarian and vegan menus, too.

CÉ LA VI, Address Sky View Hotel, Downtown Dubai, Fri 1pm to 4pm, Dhs390 soft drinks, Dhs490 house drinks, Dhs690 bubbles. Tel: (04) 582 6111. celavi.com

BRUNCH GUIDE 2021

39

CLAP DUBAI Put your hands together for Clap’s brand-new Friday brunch, offering spectacular Japanese fare across meat and veg set menus. Expect all manner of sushi and rolls followed by exquisite meat and seafood platters, plus six veggie mains to choose from. Get ready for a standing ovation – it really is that good.

Clap Dubai, DIFC, Fri 12pm to 4pm, Dhs549 with soft drinks, Dhs649 sparkling, Dhs749 champagne. Tel: (04) 569 3820. @clapdxb

40

BRUNCH GUIDE 2021

COYA This standout Latin-American brunch remains an entirely à la carte affair, with an array of starters, mains, sides and desserts brought to your table. Expect a full line-up of Coya highlights, including croquetas, ceviches and arroz nikkei, followed by a decadent dessert platter.

Coya Dubai, Four Seasons Resort, Jumeirah 2, Fri 12.30pm to 4pm. Dhs390 soft drinks, Dhs490 with house drinks, Dhs590 premium bubbles. Tel: (04) 316 9600. coyarestaurant.com

BRUNCH GUIDE 2021

41

CRESCENDO For an old school brunch that has stood the test of time, look no further than Fork and Cork at Crescendo. Fresh fresh from a renovation, Crescendo hosts the alfresco brunch on the poolside terrace. There’s a pizza oven serving up crispy wood-fired classics, a new bar area and a dessert buffet.

Plus, house band Alma Latina Duo round off the afternoon in style.

Anantara The Palm, Fri 1pm to 4pm, Dhs365 with soft drinks, Dhs525 with house drinks, Dhs630 bubbles, Dhs735 premium bubbles, Dhs165 kids aged six to 11, free kids under five. Tel: (04) 567 8304. anantara.com

42

BRUNCH GUIDE 2021

F R I DAY

Fork

Cork

Treat yourself to a tantalising Friday Brunch to remember at Crescendo.

Experience a mouth-watering culinary journey through a selection of global flavours in a relaxed, yet lively setting for friends and family.

Every Friday 1.00 pm – 4.00 pm AED 365 per person, including soft beverages AED 525 per person, including house beverages AED 630 per person, including Italian sparkling AED 735 per person, including bubbly Inclusive of Municipality Fee, Service Charge and VAT.

LIFE IS A JOURNEY. Visit anantara.com ANANTARA THE PALM DUBAI RESORT P.O. BOX 71607, EAST CRESCENT, PALM JUMEIRAH, DUBAI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES T +971 4 567 8304 • F +971 4 567 8009 • E restaurants.dubai@anantara.com

FLAIR 5 Flair 5 is reopening its exceptional sun terrace this month to host the What’s On Awardwinning Secret Garden Brunch. Tunes will be playing from the moment you arrive, with extensive drinks stations and dishes designed to share. Running every Friday from 1pm to 4.30pm, be sure to grab a cabana while you can. The after-party runs from 4.30pm to 6pm.

Flair 5, The Ritz-Carlton, DIFC, Friday 1pm to 4.30pm, Dhs345 with soft drinks, Dhs445 with house drinks and Dhs745 premium bubbles. Tel: (04) 372 2395. ritzcarlton.com

FRENCH RIVIERA Set sail on a passport-free foray to the South of France during a culinary voyage to the Cote d’Azur. Michelin man Chef Kim JoiniéMaurin has whipped up a glamorous brunch menu featuring sharing starters, a main course including Dover sole and a sumptuous platter of desserts. Dine alfresco while enjoying postcardperfect views of the Arabian Gulf, or enjoy the air-conditioned comfort indoors while tapping your toes to the beat of the live house band.

Jumeirah Al Qasr, Fri and Sat 12.30pm to 4pm, Dhs350 with soft drinks, Dhs450 with house drinks, Dhs295 vegetarian with soft drinks, Dhs395 vegetarian with house drinks.

Tel: (04) 432 3232. @frenchrivieradubai

44

BRUNCH GUIDE 2021

GARDEN ON 8 Fun, loud and a little bit rowdy, this casual Friday brunch at the Media One Hotel serves up big roast dinners, hotdogs, fries and Mexican bites throughout its vast indoor and outdoor areas.

Garden on 8, Media One Hotel, Dubai Media City, Fri 2pm to 5pm, Dhs249 with soft drinks, Dhs329 house drinks. Tel: (04) 427 1000. @gardenon8

GOOSE ISLAND TAP HOUSE This gourmet British brekkie brunch includes everything from sausages and bacon to hash browns and boiled eggs on toast. The sharing platter is accompanied by obligatory breakfast cocktails and fizz. The afternoon then weaves its way through staple gastropub favourites, including cod and chips, all accompanied by a live band and the chance to ‘putt’ your best foot forward on a golf simulator.

Goose Island Tap House, FIVE Jumeirah Village, JVC, Fri 12.30pm to 4pm, Dhs375 with house drinks, Dhs475 sparkling. Tel: (04) 455 9989. jumeirahvillage.fivehotelsandresorts.com

46

BRUNCH GUIDE 2021

HUTONG Hutong’s brand-new Friday brunch is all that – and dim sum (sorry). Appetisers at the Chinese hotspot in DIFC include cumin scallop squid and shrimp, seaweed and lotus bao and crystal vegetable dumplings, while mains include wok-tossed beef tenderloin and Yunnan chicken in truffle sauce. Entertainment takes the form of geishas on stilts and Terracotta Army soldiers on patrol, so be on your best behaviour.

Hutong, Gate Building 6, DIFC, Dubai, Fri 12pm to 3.30pm, Dhs288 with soft drinks, Dhs388 with house drinks, Dhs588 champagne. Tel: (04) 220 0868. hutong-dubai.com

IRIS DUBAI One of the city’s top part destinations hosts a Friday brunch that oozes cool. Guests will find live DJs, a well-heeled crowd and a sumptuous menu of top tipples and bites at this Meydan Grandstand hotspot. Yes, the taxi journey for New Dubai residents can sometimes seem never-ending, but you’ll be rewarded with a marathon four-hour feast and a three-hour post-brunch party.

Iris Dubai, Meydan Racecourse Grandstand, Nad Al Sheba, Fri 1pm to 5pm, Dhs250 soft drinks, Dhs360 wine and beer, Dhs420 mixed drinks and spirits, Dhs520 bubbles, Dhs550 premium bubbles. Tel: (056) 951 1442. irisdubai.com

48

BRUNCH GUIDE 2021

IRISH VILLAGE The Irish Village On Tour Brunch takes diners on a round-the-world trip with dishes from Japan, Italy, Mexico, India, China, Greece and Ireland, of course. The five-hour session runs from noon to 5pm with guests able to secure a three-hour package at any time. Grab a table on the vast terrace, enjoy the live music and tick this one off your Dubai bucket list.

The Irish Village, Al Garhoud, Fri 12pm to 5pm, Dhs149 with soft drinks, Dhs249 with house drinks, Dhs59 kids under 12. Tel: (04) 282 4750. theirishvillage.com

BRUNCH GUIDE 2021

49

KOYO Brand-new Japanese restaurant Koyo has just opened at the InterContinental Dubai Marina and alongside it, there’s a new brunch named ‘Kabuki’. The Friday soiree launched just last month but is already a big hit, serving up Japanese dishes with plenty of energetic performances, raucous entertainment and live music.

Koyo, InterContinental Dubai Marina, Dubai, Fri 1pm to 4pm, Dhs350 with soft drinks, Dhs450 with house drinks, Dhs55 sparkling. Tel: (04) 566 4088. koyodubai.com

50

BRUNCH GUIDE 2021

LA CANTINE DU FAUBOURG Brunch at La Cantine du Faubourg is an elegant affair. The selection includes indulgent breakfast dishes, such as French toast and truffled scrambled eggs, so you don’t need to skip the most important meal of the day. Drinks options include Pimm’s and mimosas. The Saturday brunch has proved so popular that it’s now available on Fridays, too.

La Cantine du Faubourg, Jumeirah Emirates Towers, Fri and Sat 12pm to 6pm (three-hour sessions), Dhs345 with soft drinks, Dhs465 with wine, beer and selected cocktails, Dhs695 with premium drinks. Tel: (04) 352 7105. lacantine.ae

BRUNCH GUIDE 2021

51

LI’ BRASIL The adult-only Brunch Beleza at Address Beach Resort boasts sweeping views over Bluewaters Island and beyond. The fusion of Lebanese and Brazilian dining brings the samba to the Middle East and is served in a sharing style. Expect exquisite cocktails with a twist and a live DJ – while the delicious seaside views aren’t bad either.

Li’ Brasil, Address Beach Resort, JBR, Fri 12.30pm to 4pm, Dhs388 with soft drinks, Dhs488 with house drinks, Dhs698 bubbles.

Tel: (04) 879 8866. addresshotels.com/en/ restaurant/li-brasil

52

BRUNCH GUIDE 2021

MAIDEN SHANGHAI Are you ready to celebrate the weekend at Maiden Shanghai? Gather your friends and get ready for the Naughty Noodles brunch, every Friday from 1pm to 4pm. Enjoy unlimited gourmet Chinese food and specially-crafted cocktails and the best of live entertainment by the dj, plus champagne shows, all topped with one-hour free-flowing bubbly. Sundowners? Join in the fun from 4pm to 7pm and take advantage of three drinks for Dhs100 – it’s the weekend after all.

FIVE Palm Jumeirah, Palm Jumeirah, Fri 1pm to 4pm, Champagne brunch Dhs400 for ladies, Dhs450 for gents. Over 21s only. Tel: (052) 750 0775. @maidenshanghaidubai

54

BRUNCH GUIDE 2021

naughty award-winning chinese food & artisan drinks

noodles bubbly brunch from aed400 every friday 1-4pm | rsvp 04 455 9989

MAUI BEACH RESTAURANT & BAR Dedicate your Thursday night to discovering unique flavours from regions across India. Surprise delicacies are served in a street food market style, so brace your tastebuds for a flurry of new finds. The Desi Junction Thursday evening brunch offers a family-friendly evening both indoors and out, with tables close enough to hear the waves lap against the beach. Because what beats the crunch of chaat and puri like the music of the ocean?

Maui Beach Restaurant & Bar, Sofitel Dubai The Palm, Palm Jumeirah, Thur 7pm to 11pm, Dhs195 with soft drinks, Dhs98 kids aged six to 12. Tel: (04) 455 6677. sofitel-dubai-thepalm.com/ restaurants/maui-beach-restaurant

LAUNCHES OCTOBER 28

MCGETTIGAN’S SOUK MADINAT McGettigan’s in Souk Madinat not only has great food and drinks but fabulous views of the Burj Al Arab and the magical waterways of the souk. Take a more leisurely approach to your weekend with its Laid-Back Social Brunch, running Fridays from 1pm to 4pm and Saturdays between 2 and 5pm. From only Dhs299, you can enjoy a three-course menu, free flowing drinks, including a range of cocktails, and the best in live music.

McGettigan’s Souk Madinat, Fri 1pm to 4pm, Sat 2pm to 5pm, from Dhs299. mcgettigans. com/brunch

56

BRUNCH GUIDE 2021

WALL STREET

AED 299 INCLUSIVE OF PREMIUM DRINKS CREDITS, HOUSE BEVERAGES AND FANTASTIC FOOD.

FIRST FRIDAY OF EACH MONTH, 3PM - 6PM

DRINK EXCHANGE GAME, SPOT PRIZES, ENTERTAINMENT AND MORE!

A McGETTIGAN’S PRODUCTION

PARTY BRUNCH

FOUR DISTINCT BRUNCHES WITH MCGETTIGAN’S

dwtc - dubai

FRIDAY Night

mcgettigans.com/brunch

BRUNCH Every Friday 7-10pm

THREE-COURSE MENU WITH UNLIMITED DRINKS

Regular AED 299 | Premium AED 349

Session Brunch LIVE MUSIC ALL DAY FRIDAY | 1-4PM | SATURDAY | 2-5PM souk madinat jumeirah - dubai

IT’S TIME TO LIVE A LITTLE LOUDER PACKAGES FROM AED249 FANTASTIC MUSIC, FOOD AND POST-BRUNCH OFFERS.

299AED |

ELEVATED MENU, INCLUSIVE BEVERAGES

EVERY FRIDAY FROM 1-4PM

MIMI KAKUSHI This slick spot sharpens its sushi slicing knives for a three-hour session every weekend.

Leading the unstoppable global Japanese culinary takeover, Mimi Kakushi’s impeccable team serves favourites including black cod, gyoza, sashimi and kaiso sarada seaweed salad – wow, try saying that three times after a few saki. Brunch runs three hours every Friday and Saturday between 1pm and 4pm.

Mimi Kakushi, Four Seasons Resort Dubai at Jumeira Beach, Jumeirah, Fri and Sat 1pm to 4pm, Dhs350 with soft drinks, Dhs490 with house drinks, Dhs695 premium bubbles.

Tel: (04) 379 4811. mimikakushi.ae

MOVENPICK HOTEL JUMEIRAH BEACH Quite literally dive into Fridays at Splash! The Pool Brunch, where you can gorge on an endless menu of international favourites before assuming the beached whale position to digest. Talk and Soul deliver dishes from Mongolia to Mexico and everywhere in between. Pool access is from noon to 6pm and the brunch runs from 1pm to 4pm.

Movenpick Hotel Jumeirah Beach, JBR, Fri 1pm to 4pm, Dhs299 with soft drinks, Dhs399 with sparkling. half price for children (6 to 12 years old), under sixes free. Tel: (04) 449 8834. movenpick.com/en/middleeast/uae/dubai/hotel-dubai-jumeirah-beach

58

BRUNCH GUIDE 2021

THE POOL BRUNCH

DJ POOL ACCESS LIVE STATIONS KIDS CONNER

SOFT PACKAGE - AED 299 HOUSE BEVERAGE - AED 399

INDOOR & OUTDOOR SEATING AVAILABLE. FOR RESERVATION: 044498888 EMAIL: Talk.Jumeirahbeach@movenpick.com T&C: Prior booking required. Maximum of two children free with every two paying adult.

Offer cannot be combined with anyother promotion

PIERCHIC Whether there’s romance in the air or you’re there purely for the fine Italian fare, Pierchic guarantees to tick all the boxes with its new Sul Mare brunch. Sharing dishes of crudo, fish, fresh pasta and desserts are served at the table as a live DJ spins out the tunes on the ones and twos.

Pierchic, Jumeirah Al Qasr, Umm Suqeim, Fri 12.30pm to 3.30pm, Dhs390 with soft drinks, Dhs490 with house drinks. Tel: (04) 432 3232. jumeirah.com

60

BRUNCH GUIDE 2021

PORTERHOUSE STEAKS & GRILLS Find yourself immersed in the prohibition era at Porterhouse Steaks & Grills during its Friday Brunch. Drinks are inspired

by New Orleans’ bar scene, while a live jazz band provides the perfect Big Easy backdrop. Highlights on the menu include the What’s On Award-winning steaks and other meaty delights, which are carved tableside.

Sofitel Dubai The Palm, Palm Jumeirah, Fri 1pm to 4pm, Dhs350 with soft drinks, Dhs495 bubbles. Tel: (04) 455 6677. sofiteldubaithepalm.com/restaurants

LAUNCHES OCTOBER 22

62

BRUNCH GUIDE 2021

ADVERTISEMENT

TWO NEW BRUNCH FEASTS ON THE PALM To celebrate the return of alfresco brunching season, Sofitel Dubai The Palm serves up a weekend double

Launching October 22 01

Porterhouse Steaks & Grills

This adult-only brunch aims to beam diners back to the prohibition era – only without the drinks ban. The multi-What’s On awardwinner opens its indoor and outdoor dining areas as chefs showcase the finest signature grills, with sizzling, oozing goodness carved right at the table.

Mixologists will whip up some of New Orleans’ favourite cocktails as a live jazz band adds a final nod to the 1920s Big Easy.

Keep your eyes peeled for a mystery game with a chance to win prizes, plus a 40 per cent off happy hour between 4pm and 8pm.

Porterhouse Steaks & Grills, Sofitel Dubai The Palm, Palm Jumeirah, Fri 1pm to 4pm, Dhs350 soft drinks, Dhs495 bubbles.

Launching October 28 02

Zoya by Maui

Dedicate your Thursday night to discovering unique flavours from regions across India.

Surprise delicacies are served in a street food market style, so brace your tastebuds for a flurry of new finds.

The Desi Junction Thursday evening brunch sees the casual beach hangout transformed into a vibrant homage to the Asian subcontinent.

The alfresco restaurant offers a family friendly evening both indoors and out, with a tables close enough to hear the waves lap against the beach.

Because what beats the crunch of chaat and puri like the music of the ocean?

Maui Beach Restaurant & Bar, Sofitel Dubai The Palm, Palm Jumeirah, Thu 7pm to 11pm, Dhs195 soft drinks, Dhs98 kids aged six to 12.

TO BOOK, PLEASE CALL 04 455 6677 OR VISIT, SOFITELDUBAITHEPALM.COM/RESTAURANTS BRUNCH GUIDE 2021

63

SEVEN SISTERS Nominated as one of the Best Party Brunches at this year’s What’s On Nightlife Awards, diners should dig out their gladrags for a five-hour Sundown Brunch

by Seven Sisters, in partnership with LUV events. Running from 3pm, DJs spin a mix of hip hop and R&B and mixologists serve up endless cocktails as the kitchen rolls out sushi, sliders and more. Oh, and don’t forget an obligatory selfie at sunset.

JW Marriott Marquis Hotel, Fri 3pm to 8pm, Dhs199 with soft drinks, Dhs349 with house drinks, Dhs449 bubbles. Tel: (056) 77 54777 9957. @sundownbrunch

64

BRUNCH GUIDE 2021

SAFFRON 2.0 Dubai’s legendary party brunch returned in August with Saffron Brunch 2.0. The adult-only event serves up more than 220 dishes from dim sum to seafood. There are 20 live cooking stations to visit, including a meat carving station, sushi station and soup station as well as freeflowing drinks throughout the three-hour brunch. It’s a Friday that needs no introduction, just open arms. Welcome back, Saffron.

Atlantis, The Palm, Palm Jumeirah. Fri 1pm to 4pm, Dhs455 with house drinks, Dhs495 with bubbles. Tel: (04) 426 0800. @saffronbrunch

66

BRUNCH GUIDE 2021

NATIVE MARKETING OPPORTUNITIES AVAILABLE ON EMIRATES Attractions & Activities Health & Wellness Study in the UAE Properties in the UAE Dining Hotels & Resorts Golfing The ‘Enjoy Dubai & UAE’ channels on Emirates’ awardwinning ice platform provide affordable access to one of the largest, captivated and affluent audiences in the world, creating a unique opportunity to showcase your business.

FOR ENQUIRIES: +971 4 427 3000 | sales@motivate.ae

motivatemedia.com

SOUL STREET Nomad Brunch, the FIVE Jumeirah Village knees up, blends DJs, street food from around the world and cocktails to match. Streets eats include chicken tikka tartlets, pavs at the chaat cart, a taco truck and baos. All can be washed down with a selection of ice cold sips and afternoon dips in the pool. Don’t forget your trunks for this one.

Soul Street, FIVE Jumeirah Village, JVC, Fri 1pm to 4pm, Dhs299 with house drinks for ladies, Dhs349 with house drinks for gents. Tel: (055) 700 0515. @soulstreetdubai

68

BRUNCH GUIDE 2021

BOTTOMLESS STREET FOOD BRUNCH P O O L A C C E S S & L I V E E N T E R TA I N M E N T F R I DAY S , 1-4 P M | B O O K N O W , C A L L 0 5 5 7 0 0 0 5 1 5

STK It’s the return of steaks, saxophones and sparkly dresses – and it promises to be bigger and better than ever. The party brunch at STK merges dining and dancing with live entertainers and an ever-changing menu of contemporary European cuisine. While steak is the main dish carnivores come for, vegetarians are well-catered for and the particularly excellent cocktails are for all.

Rixos Premium Dubai JBR, JBR, Fri 1pm to 4pm and 5pm to 8pm, Dhs300 with soft drinks, Dhs375 with house drinks, Dhs425 bubbles. Tel: (04) 323 0061. stksteakhouse.com/dubai-jbrdouble-dare-to-brunch

THE RESTAURANT DUBAI MARINA If you believe great food and a great movie is the perfect Friday recipe, then make Address Dubai Marina’s new brunch your family’s next feast.

The brunch mixes food and drinks, children’s games and a bouncy castle, desserts and free movie tickets to the Reel Cinema in Dubai Marina Mall. Each package comes with one cinema ticket.

The Restaurant, Address Dubai Marina, Dubai Marina, Fri 1pm to 4pm, Dhs225 with soft drinks, Dhs325 with house drinks, Dhs425 bubbles, Dhs125 ages seven to 12, free kids under six.

Tel: (04) 436 7777. @addressdubaimarina

70

BRUNCH GUIDE 2021

THE TIPSY LION Following a roaring return, Brit pub The Tipsy Lion hosts a new Saturday BBQ with a focus on spending your weekend relaxing on the cheap. For just Dhs150, guests can enjoy unlimited drinks, including pitchers of sangria, along with a platter of delicious food such as smoked brisket, beef chorizo, chicken and a selection of sides.

Tipsy Lion, Sofitel Downtown, Downtown Dubai, Sat 1pm to 3pm, Dhs150 (extended one hour drinks package Dhs50). Tel: (058) 896 0045. tipsyliondubai.com

TORTUGA If you’re not spending Friday with a bulging taco grasped in each hand while you seat-shimmy to a Miriachi style band, then you’re doing it all wrong. Friday Fiesta brunch at Tortuga supplies the props, all you need to bring is the moves (plus a massive appetite) to the sharingstyle soirée at Jumeirah Mina A Salam.

This one guarantees fun by the piñata load. Arriba!

Tortuga, Jumeirah Mina A Salam, Umm Suqeim, Fri 12.30pm to 4pm, Dhs325 with soft drinks, Dhs449 with house drinks, Dhs150 kids under 12. Tel: (04) 432 3232. jumeirah.com

72

BRUNCH GUIDE 2021

TRAITEUR A legend on the Dubai dining scene, the lavish Traiteur brunch is back for another alfresco dining season at Park Hyatt Dubai from mid-October.

Food-wise, there’s truly something for everyone, with a dedicated cheese room for the curd lovers. Expect a topquality menu of seafood and hot dishes, paired with sparkling Creek views.

Park Hyatt Dubai, Dubai Creek, Fri 1pm to 4.30pm, Dhs495 with soft drinks, Dhs695 with house drinks, Dhs775 bubbly, Dhs895 premium bubbly. Tel: (04) 602 1234. hyatt.com

74

BRUNCH GUIDE 2021

WANDERLUST AT GARDEN Forget picture-perfect poses on Insta, if you want to know what #wanderlust really means, head to another of Dubai’s famous buffet banquets. Garden’s chefs roll out an enormous collection of dishes from around the world served at live cooking stations as well as an entire room of desserts. If your plate of fresh crab legs sandwiched between a slice of dark forest gateau and wedges of parmesan raises eyebrows, you’re doing it right.

Wanderlust at Garden, JW Marriott Marquis Hotel, Business Bay, Fri 1pm to 4pm, Dhs425 with house drinks. Tel: (04) 414 3000. portal.marriott.com/dxbjw-jw-marriott-marquisdubai-uae-hotels-dining/garden

76

BRUNCH GUIDE 2021

ZUMA Paydays can’t come soon enough to enjoy the exceptional Zuma brunch again and again. Diners can tuck into a tasting menu of some of Dubai’s finest Japanese cuisine as well as an exceptional drinks package.

Oysters, tempura, scallops, fresh sushi and wagyu steak starters will be served to the table, before a choice of mains including black cod, Boston lobster or Australian rib-eye.

Gate Building 6, DIFC, Fri and Sat 12pm to 4pm, Dhs595 with soft drinks, Dhs695 with wine, beer and bubbles, Dhs795 premium bubbles, Dhs255 kids aged four to 12. Tel: (04) 425 5660. zumarestaurant.com/dubai

78

BRUNCH GUIDE 2021

BACKYARD BRUNCH

AED 97.50 FOR KIDS BELOW 12 YEARS AED 195 INCLUDING SOFT BEVERAGES AED 360 INCLUDING HOUSE BEVERAGES

Every Friday From 1pm to 4pm

OM R F K BACth OCTOBER Head down to Bridgewater Tavern for 15 a laid-back, family friendly afternoon in the sun with gourmet comfort food, refreshing bevvies, live entertainment and fun games for the little ones.

JW Marriott Marquis Dubai Sheikh Zayed Road, Business Bay | T +971 4 414 3000 jwmarriottmarquisdubailife.com bridgewatertavern jwmarriottmarquisdubai