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It’s time for brunch

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Abu Dhabi Week takes a look at the variety on offer in the capital

One of the first things new residents in Abu Dhabi learn is that brunches are the weekend norm. Whether it’s an international buffet or set menu, child-friendly or sophisticated, budget or blowout, residents are never short on options. This week we’ve rounded up a slew of brunches in the capital. Whether you’re looking for a casual afternoon out with the family or want to treat yourself to a bubbly brunch with friends, you’re sure to find something to suit your taste.

Rhodes 44 at the St. Regis Abu Dhabi

For a gastronomic treat of epic proportions the brunch at Rhodes 44 overseen by British chef Gary Rhodes is an absolute must. The ‘At the Table!’ brunch takes the choice away from the diner and instead guests are treated to a selection of four starters, four mains and four desserts from the tailor-made menu of classic British dishes. The corned beef, potato and onion hash cakes were simply outstanding and worth the visit on their own. The dishes are perfectly presented and offer a wonderful culinary journey into the best of British food. Save room for the cheese selection at the end as there are more than 20 delectable choices on offer. Impeccable brunch! Prices start from AED 270. Contact: 02 694 4444

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Monte-Carlo Beach Club

If you’re after a more decadent option, Le Deck’s brunch at Monte-Carlo Beach Club is the perfect spot for you. Situated in the gorgeous surroundings of Saadiyat’s go-to beachfront hangout, the brunch offers diners a half-half concept; vast buffet options for starters and desserts, but a set menu for the main courses. A seafood display offers oysters, king crab legs, jumbo shrimp, salmon gravlax and tuna, with a cured meats and terrines section boasting cecellion de lion, foie gras terrines and parfait, all made fresh in-house. Soft drinks packages start at AED 270; house beverage packages start at AED 400 and French bubbly packages start from AED 470. Booking is advised. Contact: 02 656 3500

Noche at the Hilton Capital Grand

Noche offers the perfect ingredients for the perfect brunch. Not only fabulous food and drink on offer but a glorious setting outside on the terrace with Cuban singers entertaining the adults while clowns entertain the youngsters at a dedicated children’s area. You can even enjoy the delights of the pool after your brunch. The main concept at Noche is that food is cooked to order by chefs standing by to answer your culinary needs. There’s a spectacular array of food on offer including risottos, salads, soups, Wagyu beef roasts, seafood and curries. The octopus ceviche was divine. There’s a also a superb BBQ with cuts of beef, lamb, chicken and seafood waiting to be grilled and brought to your table. For the adventurous you can end with some liquid nitrogen-made ice cream! Brunch starts at AED 195++. Contact: 02 617 0000

Sevilla at Al Raha Beach Hotel

If you’re looking for an excellent brunch to enjoy with all the family then Sevilla should tick every box. The extensive buffet features European, Middle Eastern and Asian cuisines in abundance. We spotted delights on offer that we hadn’t seen before at brunches including the delectable rabbit terrine. There’s a wide choice of salads, soups, meats and seafood available. The traditional Emirati dish of goat and rice was bursting with flavours and the curry section is fantastic. A splendid Friday family feast with prices starting at AED 249. Contact: 02 508 0555

Shangri-La Abu Dhabi

Undoubtedly one of the best brunches in town. Hosted in Sofra BLD, diners can tuck into the impressive seafood bar, sushi, salads and international cheeses to the selection of wholesome main courses including Moroccan dishes, Indian curries and hot roasts. From 12.30pm to 4pm with packages starting at AED 250++ with unlimited soft drinks. Contact: 02 509 8888

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Etihad Towers

Nahaam at the iconic Etihad Towers offers one of the capital’s more lavish brunches, yet the quality and environment on offer certainly match the price tag. Fresh oysters, lobster and scallops adorned our plate for the first of many of today’s helpings. Outside we visited the Pad Thai cooking station and the crispy shredded duck station. That was our Asian craving fulfilled. Then, the fresh pasta and sauce chef cooked us an al dente rigatoni dish with spicy arrabiata sauce. Dessert? Platforms and stations stacked with chocolates, sweets, ice creams, cakes and pastries – even a movie popcorn stand for the kids. This brunch ticks every box with ease. Starting from AED 331 net including soft drinks. For more details Contact: 02 811 5666

Dusit Thani

The Urban Kitchen at Dusit Thani Abu Dhabi is vivacious and exciting. Aptly named “Wok with Me,” this brunch offers some of the finest Asian cuisine in town as you watch the chefs mix up some delicious wok-fried specialties. The noodle bar offers guests a chance to pick from an eclectic mix of flavours and noodle shapes blended with the freshest vegetables, fish and meat. Buffet starts at AED 220++ including soft drinks. Children under six-years-old dine for free. For more details Contact: 02 698 8888

The Westin Abu Dhabi Golf Resort & Spa

One of the city’s most popular brunches, the award-winning Fairways brunch offers plenty of fresh foods, live cooking stations and the post brunch “be on the grass” evening event. The chefs at Fairways are open to the elements here, as the open kitchen adds to the already bustling environment. We particularly enjoyed the crispy duck rolls and petit chocolate fondants for dessert. Almost every cuisine is available. The post-brunch party on the outside lawn area proves to be a hit as plenty of diners continue their Friday fun on the grass; the live DJ will keep your energy levels up well into the evening. Starting at AED 290++ including soft drinks and Jing teas. Contact: 02 616 9999

Crowne Plaza Abu Dhabi

There are three different brunches at the Crowne Plaza Abu Dhabi on Hamdan Street, all of which are worth a mention! Spaccanapoli’s La Dolce Vita Brunch offers a selection of fresh pizzas, pastas and other Italian delicacies. Starting from AED 119++. Next, Cho Gao; a fantastic Far East feast with all of the classic dishes and make sure to finish with one of the best iced teas around! Starting from AED 118++. Finally we have The Garden Restaurant.  An international array of cuisines are on offer here for AED 185++. For more details on all of the brunches Contact: 02 616 6166

Le Méridien Easter Brunch

Le Méridien’s restaurants have joined forces for the 20th April to bring you just about everything you could want from their popular eateries. Firstly we have the delights of La Brasserie Restaurant. A seafood and sushi buffet along with Arabic mezze and salads kick things off. Then to Papagallo’s for some freshly cooked risotto and pizza, to NRG to satisfy our Mexican cravings before we return back outside to The Garden to savour one of three roasted whole lambs. Delicious! Prices start from AED 199 including soft drinks. For more details Contact: 02 644 6666

Avasa

Located in the Collection at the St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort, Avasa offers diners the opportunity to experience a ‘symphony of traditional and contemporary Indian cuisine’. Diners can also take advantage of the live tandoor and grill stations, along with a special Indian breads station. Children eat at half price. Friday and Saturday brunch is served from noon to 4pm AED 133++ with soft drinks, AED 183++ with unlimited spirits and AED 233++ with unlimited bubbly. Contact: 02 674 2221

Tilal Liwa

Guests looking to embrace their surroundings should head out to Tilal Liwa for a dreamy desert getaway. Located on the stunning dunes of the Al Gharbia region,  the Friday brunch offered at the all-day dining restaurant, Al Badiya will see guests indulge in a variety of Indian, Arabic and international cuisine. Featuring live cooking stations and an enormous dessert buffet and salad station.  Hosted every Friday for AED 150 from 12.30pm to 4pm. For more Contact: 02 894 6111

InterContinental Hotel Abu Dhabi

The Friday Marina Brunch at InterContinental has made a name for itself in the capital thanks to its vast selection of tasty food from each of its popular restaurants. While patrons can sit in either the hotel’s Asian bar and restaurant The Yacht Club or Brazilian hot spot Chamas, the buffet also features favourites from Italian restaurant Boccaccio and mussel moguls Belgian Café. Chefs at the live cooking stations churn out juicy grilled cuts, heart-warming pasta, fresh mussels and so much more. Friday Marina Brunch is served from noon to 4pm, with packages from AED 216++ including soft drinks. Contact: 02 666 6888

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Sofitel Abu Dhabi Corniche

A sort of jukebox brunch, the team at Corniche restaurant gives diners a list of songs they want to hear from the hotel’s new resident jazz band The Scene. Enjoy a selection of fresh seafood and Arabic salads before venturing into the selection of main dishes. Sofitel’s Friday brunch is served from 12.30pm to 4pm, with packages starting at
AED 245++ with soft drinks. Contact: 02 813 7777

Holiday Inn Abu Dhabi

When the family needs an excuse for a meal out without the overwhelming typical brunch atmosphere, the Holiday Inn’s brunch is a great option. Hosted in Silk Route Café, the international affair shows casual at its best. The buffet includes all the customary dishes from salads and cold starters to hot main dishes from the live roast station and of course tempting desserts to end with. Children below the age of six eat free, while those aged seven to 12 receive a 30 per cent discount. Friday brunch is served from 12.30pm to 3.30pm and starts at AED 139++ with soft drinks. Contact: 02 657 4888

Crowne Plaza Yas Island

Jing Asia, at the Crowne Plaza on Yas Island, offers a wide variety of delights for every palate at their Family Friday Brunch. A brilliant bread display, a fresh juice and smoothie station, and an appetiser buffet get things rolling, with a hand-rolled sushi and seafood display also available. Everything from Asian/Pan Asian, local, and European favourites, including a grilled meats station can be found, with children especially taken care of with their own pint-sized buffet featuring faves such as mac and cheese, chicken fingers and pizza.  Fridays from 12.30pm to 4pm. Adults AED 200, AED 295 with beverages; Kids aged six to 12 AED 65 AED, and teens 13 to 15 only AED 100. Reservation recommended. Contact: 02 656 3053

Sheraton Khalidiya

Enjoy a customary international buffet in La Veranda restaurant at Sheraton Khalidiya for a relaxed Friday treat. Nestled in the heart of the city, La Veranda is a convenient option for a relaxed meal. The basic spread includes fresh salads, main courses and desserts for just AED 120 net including a selection of house beverages. Expect a variety of cuisine from European and Arabic salads and seafood to start followed by hot Asian and Italian specialties. While we don’t recommend this brunch for families with little ones, the lack of live entertainment means you won’t have to shout across the table, making this a great brunch to catch up with friends. Every Friday from noon to 4pm. Contact: 02 666 6220

Fairmont Bab Al Bahr

Fairmont’s lavish brunch sums up the all-you-can-eat ethos in the UAE. But that doesn’t mean they skimp on quality. Featuring over 200 dishes across three venues – CuiScene, Frankie’s Italian Restaurant and Marco Pierre White Steakhouse & Grill – diners won’t be short on options. CuiScene offers an international selection from hot Japanese pizza to prime Australian lamb chops and let’s not forget the three-metre long raw seafood bar. Neighbouring Frankie’s serves up antipasto, fresh pasta and a selection of pizza while MPW does what it does best – think roast prime rib with Yorkshire pudding and English pies. The dedicated kids’ corner complete with smoothies, candyfloss and plenty of games will keep the little ones happy. Friday brunch is served from noon to 4pm from AED 269++ with soft drinks. Contact: 02 654 3238

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Eastern Mangroves by Anantara

You’ll find all of the usual suspects here – a large and varied salad bar and a mix of authentic Arabic, Mexican, European and Indian dishes. The stars of the brunch offerings however are the fresh Asian selections. Rounds of fresh sushi, tiny Asian themed canapés, and of course, a handful of flavourful noodle dishes are up for the taking. Our favourite is the creamy Thai Tom Yum Soup. Finishing up with the savouries be sure to sample everything in the epic dessert spread. Hosted at Ingredients restaurant every Friday from 12.30pm to 4pm. From AED 240++ with soft drinks to AED 450++ with select beverages. For more information Contact: 02 656 1000

Le Royal Méridien

For an Irish-themed day out, smack dab in the capital, head over to PJ O’Reilly’s for a special poolside picnic brunch. The all-inclusive day out features an array of delicious food, frosty beverages and live music to keep you entertained.From 1pm to 4pm every Friday, AED 185 per person and AED 60 per child. For more information Contact: 02 674 2020 

Sheraton Abu Dhabi Hotel and Resort

Featuring a massive international spread, you’ll be spoilt for choice at this revamped food fest. Served in a market-style setting, guests can comfortably stroll around and load up their plates with a variety of freshly cooked dishes. The warm and inviting atmosphere is further complemented with playful piano music, premium bubbles and a family friendly atmosphere.  Every Friday from 12.30pm to 3.30pm. AED 249 net per person. Book for a minimum of ten guests and receive a 25 per cent discount. For more information Contact: 02 677 3333

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The Café, Park Hyatt

Treat yourself and enjoy a delectable brunch with stunning views across the expansive swimming pool, the pristine beach and out to sea on Saadiyat Island. The brunch buffet is crammed with delights – try the prawn spring rolls made in front of your eyes, we’ve never tasted better! The seafood bar is first-class with Omani lobsters, Norwegian King Crab, oysters, mussels and king prawns offering a wonderful feast. Want to impress someone? We can’t recommend somewhere better. The Café brunch starts at AED 280++. Contact: 02 407 1138

Hyatt Capital Gate Abu Dhabi

If you’re looking for a brunch with a view, then the award-winning 18˚ is a no-brainer. Featuring towering views of the pulsing capital city 80 metres above ground, guests can nosh on some finely prepared Eastern Mediterranean fare at this sophisticated selection. Featuring cuisine from Italy, Turkey, Greece, Syria and Lebanon, diners can indulge in a host of traditional and gourmet nibbles, mains and desserts. In addition to the Mediterranean cuisine, the variety of cold cuts, cheeses, seafood and grills will keep your appetite satisfied. Not to mention the large dessert counter.From 1pm to 4pm. Prices start from AED 250++ with soft beverages and juices to AED 300++ with grapes, brews and other select beverages. For more information Contact: 02 596 1440

 

 

 

 

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