Join the club

If all you know of ZSC is the sports fields and Haddins Fitness, take a look upstairs. Overlooking the floodlit pitch where the rugby team plays sits The Clubhouse – a very civilised restaurant with a great view.

With a wide variety of sport on the televisions – including the weekly Australian Football League match – The Clubhouse captures all of the athletic feel you might expect of this particular venue. However, unlike other British-style eateries, the massive observation window really opens up the room, helping to alleviate that dank, dreary feel so many sport. It also helps that The Clubhouse is strictly smoke-free.

View aside, the food is well worth a try. The very original crispy duck pizza, though small, was delicious (although we ended up ordering an excellent bowl of chips later in the night to fill us up) – unlike the giant grilled ribeye that came in a satisfying portion served atop a kicky hashed potato pancake.

Looking to keep up with all the sporty types in attendance, we also tried the mild Thai yellow fish curry which was creamy and featured fish of exemplary freshness while the flavourful Cajun roasted chicken served with corn on the cob and salad was the sort of healthy fare any personal trainer would endorse.

With plenty of outdoor seating overlooking the fields and international tennis stadium, The Clubhouse is a great spot for good food, premium beverages and laid back conversation. We’ll have to come back for the All American hot dog and Angus burger – after we hit the gym, of course.

Laura Fulton

What? The Clubhouse
Where: Zayed Sport City
Cost: Quite reasonable – most items around AED 40, nothing more than AED 95
We say: Hit the gym or team practice then enjoy a much deserved reward upstairs – we hear post-rugby Thursday nights are heaving with kids and adults alike
Contact: 02 403 4222