The concept of brunch may seem to be something more common in the west but Dubai has taken the idea to its culinary heart, so much so that when Friday rolls around – the first day of the weekend in UAE – thousands will head out to feast on the finest mid-morning foods. Even the most exclusive and finest of fine dining restaurants open their doors and offer a brunching menu, and such is the mix of cultures and nationalities which contribute to the fabric of society in such cosmopolitan cities as Dubai, options include everything from a taste of London via gourmet Fish and Chips to Italy’s finest pasta dishes to Spanish Tapas, Oriental bites and everything in between.
Here are some of the top venues for brunch in Dubai:
Nobu – Atlantis, The Palm
Nobu – Atlantis, The Palm
The Atlantis is nothing short of a cultural landmark in The Palm region of the city, boasting an unprecedented 23 restaurant concepts from some of the top names in the business. Nobu, a Japanese luxury chain, has long been regarded as a highlight within this already exclusive territory. World of Nobu Brunch is a fairly straight forward title for a menu that is anything other than ordinary and offers a wealth of dishes garnered from 14 different global Nobu locations. Add to this a serving of premium champagne, sake, live Japanese drummers, a DJ and a violinist and you certainly have a feast for all the senses.
Bulgari Yacht Club – Bulgari Resort
Bulgari Yacht Club – Bulgari Resort
One of the newest luxury brunches on the Dubai scene can be found at the Bulgari Yatch Club, and its nautical inspired decor and sumptuous sea food feast is already the talk of the town. Visually the location is unrivalled offering diners the chance to eat al fresco on a terrace overlooking the marina and the high-end yachts of those staying at the Bulgari Resort on Jumeira Bay Island. The theme is Mediterranean and inspiration comes from Italian classics with an unparalleled range of mixed, grilled seafood. Tiramisu, gelato and pear tarts make for the perfect dessert course before guests head to the pool deck to relax and let the food digest.
Al Muntaha – Burj Al Arab Jumeirah
Al Muntaha – Burj Al Arab Jumeirah
If heights are not something you are comfortable with, then this might be one to pass on. Brunching at a height of 655 feet above sea level might not be to everybody’s taste but the reward of such a location comes from the stunning vistas that span out before you. Equally as stunning is the Le Grand Petit Dejeuner Brunch menu and a dining experience fashioned from the finest seasonal ingredients from across the globe. A selection of pastries and other treats act as appetisers before guests are treated to a gorgeous a la carte menu and unparalleled views of the Jumeirah Beach, The Palm, and the famous World Islands.
Suq Restaurant – Four Seasons at Jumeirah Beach
Suq Restaurant – Four Seasons at Jumeirah Beach
Mixing fine dining with the casual and eclectic ambience of a Middle Eastern market, Suq Restaurant at Four Seasons at Jumeirah Beach offers a wonderful mix of local Arabian flavours plus Asian cuisine and Western classics. From a traditional English roast to Chinese dim sum to spicy Indian specialities plus an array of seafood, there really is something for everyone. The casual nature of the dining experience plus the wide selection of foods on offer make it popular with families and guests are free to relax in the spacious interior or the poolside gardens for a perfect post-brunch experience.
London Social – The Ritz-Carlton
London Social – The Ritz-Carlton
With so many British ex-pats to be found in Dubai, Caravan’s London Social at The Ritz-Carlton provides a wonderful taste of home for those feeling a bit nostalgic. This luxury brunch offering delivers the very best of British cuisine to the heart of the Middle East with high end takes on such enduring staples as Fish and Chips and Yorkshire Pudding. The decor is also a reminder of home with 12 cooking stations each named after a different part of the city. To top things off a wide selection of craft beer and premium gin is also available and there is even a Mr Whippy ice cream machine and a pick ’n’ mix station for the young and perpetually young alike.
SEI Club 