22 top brunches in Abu Dhabi

Ingredients, Eastern Mangroves
The deal: One of Abu Dhabi’s newest hotels is also home to one of the city’s newest brunches. We went along for their very first Friday buffet, which they bravely opened for us journalist types to attend and critique. And that’s a bold move if the grub’s not up to scratch yet. Thankfully it is. As well as an enormous selection of salads, there are Arabic dishes, dim sum, great sushi, plus tons of meat including lamb ouzi and shawarmas.

Atmosphere and setting: Anyone who went for iftar at Ingredients will feel right at home at their brunch. Simply laid out, the menu is fairly substantial and they do it well. There’s some lovely outside seating looking over the mangroves as well.

Make sure you try: The baked Alaska, which if you’re lucky the chefs will let you help them make (blowtorches at the ready!). Their sushi is some of the finest we’ve tried at a brunch in Abu Dhabi.

What needs fine-tuning? It’d be a bit harsh to slate them on opening Friday and we are actually hard-pressed to think of any dishes they did badly.

What should you wear? It’s a casual affair, but that doesn’t mean you should turn up in shorts and flip-flops.

Why you’ll return: Because there’s a good chance you’ve not been there yet, and who doesn’t like trying something new? And the location is great.
Dhs295++ per person for soft drink, coffee and tea, Dhs395++ for grape and hops, Dhs495++ for bubbles brunch. Every Friday, 12.30pm-4pm (02 656 1000).

Café Arabia
The deal: Let’s consider the offerings: a basket of fresh breads, croissants and pastries welcomes you to the quaint little buffet area, where two large tables are furnished with Arabic and continental breakfast delights. You have your sausages, scrambled eggs and potato wedges, but you also have your tabbouleh, hummus and labneh. You have the fresh salads drizzled with pomegranate dressing as well as oriental rice, or even creamy mushroom pasta for those who woke up with a large hole to fill. Of course, there is an order to all of this. They’ll start the morning off with mostly breakfast stuff, but as the afternoon sets in, all the lunch time dishes will start making an appearance. The food is good, simple stuff that’s fresh and there’s variety enough to cater for all tastes. There’s also a cheeseboard and plenty of fruit available. Plus the buffet is excellent value for money – though you can have the kitchen cook you up something à la carte, too.

Atmosphere and setting: Imagine being invited round by one of the coolest hosts in town and then basking in the creative atmosphere of their home, surrounded by the trappings of their intellectual and artistic pursuits. That said, Café Arabia’s brunch might still be one of the cheapest in the capital, yet it’s also one of the classiest. For those who associate brunch with culture and refinement (as opposed to sloth and witless hedonism), this is your Friday noon local.

Make sure you try: The homemade muffins and the Umm Ali dessert.

What needs fine-tuning: Nothing at all.

What should you wear: Smart casual.

Why you’ll return: Café Arabia has us coming back for its brunch because of the arty, laidback atmosphere. It’s a place you can enjoy with a group of friends or even alone, while reading a paperback from the small bookshelf of random titles on offer.
Dhs65 for adults and Dhs35 for kids under 12 (excluding drinks). Unlicensed. Fridays 8am-3pm. Between Al Karama and Airport Road (02 643 9699).

Oléa
The deal: The Mediterranean-themed Friday brunch at all-day dining restaurant Oléa, at the St. Regis hotel on Saadiyat Island, is one of your more civilised affairs. It’s also very family friendly, with children more than welcome – there’s even an entertainer wondering around to distract kids big and small. The Lebanese grill station includes a few items we’ve not seen anywhere else in the city, such as the delicious stuffed cabbage leaves. A special mention should also go to the seafood paella, which is one of the best we’ve sampled in the city. There are live cooking stations scattered across the venue but these are easily missed due to the
pre-prepared food that’s already laid out.

Atmosphere and setting: The restaurant itself isn’t as cavernous as some, which keeps the number of diners down and in turn contributes to the genteel atmosphere that rather fits with the hotel itself. If the weather permits sit outside; which is so much better because you’ll be able to enjoy stunning views across the resort and Saadiyat beach.

Make sure you try: The substantial spread includes a few standout items but we’d definitely take a second helping of the sushi and the sea bream with almond nut butter is excellent.

What needs fine-tuning? We weren’t moved to sample the curry offerings, because they looked rather watery, and though the desserts put on a good show, we’ve found the chocolate fountain disappointing because the chocolate can taste a tad bitter.

What should you wear? Oléa seems to attract a young and fashionable crowd, so ladies may want to get their heels out, or their most sparkly sandals.

Why you’ll return: It’s the ideal family brunch but even if you don’t have kids it’s still a great option, especially if the raucous indulgence of many other brunches really isn’t your thing.
Dhs300 per person with juices and soft drinks, Dhs385 per person with grape, grain and Spanish beverages and Dhs490 per person with bubbly. Fridays, noon-4pm. The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort (02 498 8888).

Origins
The deal: Origins offers fine food and real value for money. The spread is phenomenal, with mouth-watering offerings from all over the world including Indian, Italian, Japanese and Middle Eastern dishes, plus seafood, steaks, salads and, of course, plenty of sweets.

Atmosphere and setting: Origins is lively, and though most of the Yas Viceroy is pretty sterile, the restaurant has at least been injected with some colour. Bold yellow furnishings bring a bit of energy. It’s very kid friendly.

Make sure you try: With so much high quality food on offer, it’s impossible to single out any particular dish. That said, it’s a treat to be able to mix the grilled lobster and steak and get some surf ’n’ turf action going. Both are cooked to perfection. The pasta station is also a favourite, as you can select the sauce and pasta and have them cooked exactly how you like.

What needs fine-tuning? The service is impeccable and head chef Benoy is happy to explain exactly what everything is. The only fault is that the music can be a little loud when the live band or DJ steps up.

What should you wear? There’s no dress code here as such. Some come dressed like they’re out for the night; others are more casual.

Why you’ll return: For the amazing spread of delicious grub.
Dhs195 with soft drinks, Dhs295 with house grape, Dhs350 with bubbly. Fridays 12.30pm-4pm. Yas Viceroy (02 656 0600).

Pearls & Caviar
The deal: Awesome barbeques, great seafood and sushi counters, glitzy décor and friendly, chilled out staff.

Atmosphere and setting: One of the trendiest brunches in the capital with a vibrant, relaxed atmosphere. It’s very buzzy, with diners standing around to chat to friends and a DJ playing R&B and acid house tunes adding to the funky vibe. It’s like being at a hip party.

Make sure you try: The barbeque boxes: rectangular metal griddles delivered direct to your table full of lamb, chicken and seafood. The salad bar is also excellent.

What needs fine-tuning? It’s not the most varied menu, but what they do, they do very well. It’s an idea to tell them in advance if you have a vegetarian in your party.

What should you wear? The trendiest outfits in your wardrobe, naturally.

Why you’ll return: It’s as much about being part of a cool scene as it is the amazing food.
Dhs249 or Dhs349 per person. Pearls & Caviar, Shangri-La Hotel Qaryat Al Beri, Bain Al Jessrain (02 509 8777).

CuiScene
The deal: It’s well known for the vast variety of food on offer, but that doesn’t mean it’s a Jack of all trades, master of none. We defy you to find a course here that isn’t top quality.

Atmosphere and setting: Classy and modern looking with great views. It’s also family friendly, so it’s not the most rowdy Friday feast in the capital.

Make sure you try: The fresh sushi and the Arabic grills, which are moist and tender and perfectly cooked even if they’ve been left out for a while (inevitable at a buffet). Their Chinese dishes are a treat as well. And don’t forget the steaks.

What needs fine-tuning? When it comes to the food, we’re scratching our heads. We had a naan that was a bit burnt once? OK, if we’re being really hard, the dessert trolley could have a bit more variety on it.

What should you wear? Gents should at least put on a nice shirt, while ladies will feel most comfortable in a colourful dress.

Why you’ll return: The staff are friendly and helpful and even cater to fussy eaters.
Dhs249, Dhs299, Dhs449. Fairmont Bab Al Bahr, Bain Al Jessrain, Abu Dhabi, (02 654 3333).

Hakkasan
The deal: Hakkasan is one of Abu Dhabi’s favourite Chinese venues and they do a very popular brunch every Friday that consists of several different options of Yum Cha. There is a set menu where you can choose from a variety of steamed and deep fried dumplings and then you choose between a fish or chicken dish for your main. If you are a huge fan of steamed and deep fried dumplings then this brunch will knock your socks off. Portions are plentiful and the service is excellent.

Atmosphere and setting: The restaurant itself is tucked away in Emirates Palace and as soon as you walk in you experience a very different vibe. Picture high ceilings and dark timber divides, low pendant lights above tables, and ceiling spotlights which set the mood. You’ll feel like you’ve ventured into an exotic land at this super-trendy spot.

Make sure you try: The deep fried pumpkin dumplings with black pepper sauce.

What needs fine-tuning? There is a minimum reservation of two guests so unfortunately you can’t eat on your own. Also, if you are not a fan of dumplings then this is not a brunch for you.

What should you wear? Hakkasan attracts the super chic so make sure you wear your best outfit. Something that goes from day to night is perfect since you are most likely to end up at the bar.

Why you’ll return: The Yum Cha provides a different twist on a regular brunch and it’s great to have the dishes served to your table. The atmosphere in here means it’s fantastic fun for a larger party, too.
Dhs250 per person for soft drinks and mocktails, Dhs350 per person with bubbly and blends. Fridays noon-3pm. Emirates Palace (02 690 7999).

The Yacht Club
The deal: The Yacht Club boasts one of the most stunning views in the capital, so it’s not surprising their Friday brunch pulls a big crowd. The Yacht Club have a fantastic sushi chef and you’ll get to sample some of it as part of this brunch. There are plenty of different buffets, with live cooking stations to be enjoyed.

Atmosphere and setting: The atmosphere here is chic and fun with a laidback vibe, especially if you are sitting outside overlooking the marina.

Make sure you try: Any of the sushi is a must try. It is fresh, tasty and creative.

What needs fine-tuning? The seating inside, which is mainly booths, can be a bit of a squash if you have more than four people.

What should you wear? Wear something similar to what you would if you were about to board a luxury yacht.

Why you’ll return: The view and atmosphere are fantastic and you’ll feel really relaxed. The brunch is excellent value for money and if you want to carry on the festivities there is a DJ and a live band later.
Dhs216 per person for the non-alcoholic package, Dhs250 per person with a free flow of mixed drinks and bubbly. Fridays noon-4pm. InterContinental Hotel (02 666 6888).

Le Deck
The deal: Le Deck offers brunch with a difference: a set tapas menu of three courses – not including dessert – with each course freshly cooked and brought to your table. Dishes include chicken liver parfait, salt and pepper squid, shredded chicken summer rolls, pandan chicken, homemade lamb sausages and beef in pepper sauce. You can ask for seconds of anything you particularly like.

Atmosphere and setting: Le Deck is at the Monte-Carlo Beach Club so it’s uber-glamorous with a lovely view of the pool and beach.

Make sure you try: As much as you can from the live pastry dessert station.

What needs fine-tuning? The service can be a bit sketchy: despite plenty of waiters it has taken a while for courses to arrive on previous visits and some simple requests pose more of a challenge than they should (such as providing a menu for each person at the table).

What should you wear? Something chic with a stretchy waste band.

Why you’ll return: The quality of the food is simply astounding. Everything tastes good. For people who dislike buffets this is an excellent brunch alternative.
Dhs235 per person for the non-alcoholic package, Dhs365 per person with unlimited house grape beverages and Dhs415 for the bubbly package. Fridays 1pm-4pm. Monte-Carlo Beach Club (02 656 3500).

Ushna
The deal: This fancy Indian restaurant has a ton of awards sitting by the entrance, so it’s no surprise they also do a pretty decent brunch. Their Friday Free Flow is an à la carte menu, but buffet fans shouldn’t turn the page: you’ll get so much food you’ll end up taking half of it home. Starters include a selection of meat and vegetarian kebabs; you then choose one main dish and a biryani to accompany it. If your stomach’s not the shape of a barrel after that lot, you also get naan and dhals, plus galub jamun dumplings for pudding.

Atmosphere and setting: First, there’s the view. Sit outside and you’ve got Maqtaa Creek and the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. The subtle reds inside are modern yet capture the spirit of India perfectly. Then there’s the staff. Helpful, confident, relaxed and engaging. It’s easy to see why they win all those awards.

Make sure you try: The biryani, which is served stylishly in a big pot, surrounded by bread. It even has a bread roof! Also try their mocktails, in particular the pomegranate and lychee which is an absolute delight. The soft drinks brunch is a real bargain for the price.

What needs fine-tuning: We can’t actually think of anything that could have made the experience better, though it isn’t the liveliest of brunches: there was no noisy entertainment on our visit. But for us that was no bad thing.

What should you wear? It’s a pretty casual affair. Chinos and polo will do for the guys and pretty dresses for the gals.

Why you’ll return: It’s some of the finest Indian cuisine in the city, in a beautiful setting, with doting staff and it all goes easy on your wallet.
Dhs145 per person for the non-alcoholic package or Dhs225 for unlimited house beverages and a glass of bubbly. Souk Qaryat Al Beri (02 558 1769).

Sofra bld
The deal: The Sofra bld brunch is vast, varied and extremely popular with expat and local families alike. There are the three chocolate fountains, the Indian section, the sushi, the Arabic dishes, the enormous selection of puddings and the classy décor. The in-crowd head here.

Atmosphere and setting: It’s a lively brunch. There’s a band playing, the venue is huge with a ton of tables and the buffet area is always a buzz with loads of people cramming their plates full of the different dishes on display.

Make sure you try: The chocolate fountains. You can pour it over strawberries and marshmallows and if you’re really classy, you can stick your head under it. Actually, don’t try this. It’ll ruin your clothes and you’ll get thrown out. Also head for the sushi and the crêpes, which they will make for you while you watch and stuff full of ice cream.

What needs fine-tuning? It can be quite expensive because there’s no soft drinks option, which means you’re forced to pay more for beverages you may never touch. There are so many options when it comes to the food, we were left wishing they’d spent more time making less options more memorable. The food’s good, but for this price we wanted to have our minds and tastebuds blown away. But they weren’t.

What should you wear? It’s a bit more of a posh affair, so fellas should throw on a nice shirt and shoes with their jeans. The girls will want to glam up as much as possible.

Why you’ll return: It’s one of the city’s trendiest brunches and you’ll want to lounge around by the pool, which overlooks Maqtaa Creek, afterwards.
Dhs290 for grape and hop beverages, Dhs313 for bubbly brunch. Shangri-La Hotel, Bain Al Jessrain (02 509 8555).

Cedar Lounge
Brunch with Lebanese flair and live entertainment, followed by shisha on the terrace if that takes your fancy.
Dhs249 per person. 1pm-6pm. Fairmont Bab Al Bahr, Bain Al Jessrain (02 654 3223).

Choices
A great family brunch sporting tasty Indian and Middle Eastern dishes, plus mini burgers and the like for kids.
Dhs158 with soft drinks, Dhs188 including house beverages. Children aged six-12 at half price, under fives eat free. Yas Island Rotana, Yas Island (02 656 4000).

Flavours
This brunch is available for Dhs225 per person including a free flow of bubbly and live entertainment from their band. Children under the age of 12 pay half price.
Sheraton Abu Dhabi Hotel & Resort, Al Markaziyah (02 677 3333).

Jing Asia
Enjoy an extensive selection of international dishes along with free flowing beverages.
Dhs150 with soft drinks, Dhs210 with house or sparkling beverages. 12.30pm-4pm. Crowne Plaza Abu Dhabi Yas Island (02 656 3053).

Le Royal Méridien
Cross-restaurant brunch featuring delights from Soba, L’Opera and Amalfi.
Dhs140 or Dhs180 with free-flow grapey drinks. Price includes pool access. Khalifa Street, Al Markaziyah (02 674 2020).

Selections
The international buffet at Selections includes a large variety of delicious food and extended beverage options. Choose between mixed drinks and reds or whites for Dhs250.
InterContinental Abu Dhabi, Al Bateen (800 423 463).

Stills Bar & Brasserie
Enjoy Friday BBQ Brunch with your choice from a mouth-watering variety of salads and cold cuts, to the sound of some fine beats by resident DJ Jeff Davies.
12.30pm-4pm. Crowne Plaza Abu Dhabi Yas Island (02 656 3053).

Al Fanar International
Brunch buffet at Abu Dhabi’s first revolving restaurant costs Dhs255 and includes unlimited bubbly.
Le Royal Méridien Abu Dhabi, Al Markaziyah (02 695 0490).

Chamas
Salad bar, select cuts of tasty meat and chicken, dessert and unlimited juices and soft drinks for Dhs275. Add a free flow of Brazilian blends and grape beverages for Dhs375.
Noon-4pm. InterContinental Abu Dhabi, Al Bateen (02 666 6888).

Left Bank
Select as many dishes as you like from the à la carte brunch menu from noon-4pm.
Unlimited bubbly and mixed beverages for Dhs250, and 20 percent off drinks after brunch until 7pm. Booking in advance is essential. Souk Qaryat Al Beri (02 558 1680).