Brunch in Dubai: A Decadent Experience
Think of the word ‘brunch,’ and images of a lazy mid-morning meal in a cozy cafe probably spring to mind. However, in Dubai, brunch is a decadent all-you-can-eat-and-drink affair featuring resident DJs and glamorous guests.
From lively pool parties to family-friendly feasts, here are 10 of the best places to kick off your day (or make an entire day of it) in style.
Zero Gravity
For chilled DJ tunes and prime people-watching, head to Supernatural Saturdays at Zero Gravity. The day-to-night party kicks off at noon, but you’ll want to arrive early to secure a day bed by the pool. With bottomless mojitos and margaritas flowing, guests can indulge in dishes at food stations, including spit-roast lamb, Cajun-spiced chicken, and Wagyu beef sliders. The fun continues until late, so enjoy the vibrant atmosphere. Saturdays from noon to 5pm, Dhs225 (girls) and Dhs275 (guys) including house beverages
Zuma
Renowned for its exceptional food quality, including otoro tuna belly, top-grade Wagyu, and sea urchin sushi, Zuma offers one of Dubai’s best brunch experiences. This venue attracts a stylish crowd with its sushi buffet and robata grill, in addition to small, shareable plates served at your table. Miso-marinated black cod is a definite highlight on the menu. Fridays from 12.30pm to 4pm, Dhs450 (soft drinks and juices), Dhs595 (house beverages and sparkling wine), Dhs655 (Champagne)
Café Belge
This classy Belgian restaurant at The Ritz-Carlton DIFC channels a 1920s vibe at its aptly named Grand Brunch. The atmosphere is enhanced with a DJ and sax duo providing soulful jazz sounds, while flirty flappers dance the Charleston as guests savor moules frites and Fine de Claire oysters from the overflowing buffet, all washed down with Belgian beers and Bloody Mary cocktails. Fridays from 12.30pm to 4pm, Dhs295 (soft drinks), Dhs495 (house beverages and prosecco), Dhs595 (Laurent Perrier Champagne)
Garden
Spilling out from this Peruvian restaurant at JW Marriott Marquis Hotel onto a sunny terrace and into a nightclub, the Wanderlust brunch is quite the experience, as guests are handed a map to navigate through the extensive layout. The atmosphere is vibrant, featuring a live DJ, a tequila bar on the terrace, and 360 globetrotting dishes to savor, from zesty Peruvian ceviches and fragrant Thai curries to slow-cooked boeuf bourguignon. Fridays from 1pm to 4pm, Dhs425 including house beverages
El Chiringuito
If you have kids in tow, the laidback La Familia brunch at Palm Jumeirah’s Ibiza-style beach club, El Chiringuito is an ideal choice. Guests can enjoy summer berry sangria as an array of sharing plates are served at the table, including chargrilled octopus, tuna tartare, seafood paella, and veal Milanese. After dining, families can splash about in the beach and pool, while the kids have fun in the supervised kids’ club. Saturdays from noon to 4pm, Dhs395 (soft drinks), Dhs495 (house beverages), Dhs695 (Champagne)
Carnival by Tresind
At Carnival by Tresind in Burj Daman tower, you’re welcomed by waiters blowing bubbles, setting the tone for a fantastic experience. This unique venue is known for its playful Indian molecular gastronomy and lively presentations. Expect smoking cocktails and innovative takes on Indian street food served in tiffin boxes at your table, making it a top pick for vegetarians as well. Fridays from noon to 4pm, Dhs209 (soft drinks), Dhs318 (house beverages) including 10% DIFC tax
Coya
For a brunch experience as sophisticated as its clientele, look no further than Coya at the Four Seasons Resort Dubai. Start your meal with a pisco sour (or two) and indulge in unlimited ceviches, tacos, and tiraditos. The culinary delight continues with skewered meats and mains like lomo de res (beef tenderloin in red wine sauce) served at your table. Fridays from 12.30pm to 4pm, Dhs328 (soft drinks), Dhs498 (house beverages), Dhs598 (Veuve Clicquot Champagne)
Turquoise
While we won’t spoil the surprise, the live entertainment at this newcomer in the Rixos Premium Dubai will certainly leave you smiling long after your visit. Turquoise offers excellent value for an expansive brunch, featuring a plethora of Mediterranean-inspired salads, soups, starters, seafood, meats, and pasta cooked to order. Be sure to indulge in Turkish coffee martinis and delectable desserts to cap off your meal. Fridays from 1pm to 4pm, Dhs270 (soft drinks), Dhs370 (house beverages)
Bubbalicious
Spread across three restaurants at The Westin Mina Seyahi, Bubbalicious offers a bigger-than-life brunch experience. Guests can enjoy live cooking stations, unique food trucks, and a dessert section that would impress anyone, complemented by live music and acrobatic performances. Indulge in a bountiful selection from steaks and sushi to Asian cuisine and oysters. During the cooler months, opt for a table on the palm-shaded terrace. Fridays from 1pm to 4pm, Dhs450 (soft drinks), Dhs550 (house beverages), Dhs680 (Laurent Perrier Champagne)
Brasserie 2.0
With its beachy vibe, live band, and impressive spread, brunch at Le Royal Meridien’s all-day eatery is certainly worth the splurge. To make the most of your experience, consider skipping the bread and pasta, and instead focus on the 10 live cooking stations available. Pair your meal with refreshing pineapple mojitos while savoring langoustines, lobsters, and beef cheeks, and save room for a delightful Nutella crêpe. Fridays from 1.30pm to 4.30pm, Dhs400 (soft drinks), Dhs525 (house beverages), Dhs725 (Laurent Perrier Champagne)
