< Previous10 February 15 – March 14 2023 timeoutabudhabi.com Off-track action INTO THE DESERT Time for the Desert Challenge Yas Marina Circuit isn’t the only place you can catch races in the capital – competitors will be hitting the sand dunes for latest edition of Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge from Saturday February 25 until Friday March 3, and you can watch all the action online. O Sat Feb 25-Fri Mar 3. abudhabidesertchallenge.com. EXTREME WEEKENDS Watch car drifting and motoshows Haven’t made it down to the Sheikh Zayed Festival yet? Petrolheads have another reason to go as Extreme Weekends are back. Held between Wednesday and Saturday, there will be car drifting shows and epic stunts. O Dhs5. Until Sat Feb 25. Thu-Sat 4pm-midnight. Sheikh Zayed Festival, Al Wathba, zayedfestival.ae. Off to market... Don’t miss this newly launched outdoor market in Al Ain. Running every Saturday until March 25, you’ll be able to grab everything from seasonal fruit and veggies to local fashion. It’s the perfect way to shop sustainably and support local businesses in one go. O Dhs20 (aged 12 and over), Dhs10 (kids three to 11). Sat Jan 28-Sat Mar 25. Every Sat 3pm-11pm. Al Ain Oasis, Al Ain, @SaturdaymarketAA. BIGGER THAN EVER Abu Dhabi Festival returns for 20th year The Abu Dhabi Festival 2023 will run from Wednesday March 1 to Sunday March 19. This year’s line-up is bigger than ever with acts by operatic tenor Juan Diego Flórez and a debut performance by two-time Grammy award-winning Jazz musician Gregory Porter. Head to abudhabifestival.ae for the full line-up. O From Dhs75. Wed Mar 1-Sun Mar 19. Emirates Palace, abudhabifestival.ae. OH YES, IT’S LADIES’ NIGHT Get discounted bites and sips in Yas Marina Ladies, clear your diaries for this Wednesday (and every Wednesday after that), because the ultimate ladies’ night is here. Six venues across Yas Marina are running offers just for you, including a totally free ladies’ night at Penelope’s with unlimited house grape between 8pm and 11pm. Find all the details on our website now. O timeoutabudhabi.com/food-drink. Hero next door This is not a drill. Fireman Sam and his crew from Pontypandy are going to touchdown in the UAE this March with an all-singing, dancing, action- packed show that is sure to impress your kids. Taking place at the Cultural Foundation Abu Dhabi on Friday March 10 at 6pm, Saturday March 11 at 3pm and 6pm and Sunday March 12 at 11am and 3pm. O From Dhs75. Fri Mar 10 6pm; Sat Mar 11 3pm, 6pm; Sun Mar 12 11am, 3pm. Cultural Foundation, Qasr Al Hosn, artforall.ae.AED 320 Soft Package | AED 420 House Package | AED 589 Sparkling Package Go B.I.G every weekend with Booming Beats and Banging Bites. A Mezze spread and Asian flavors. Meat cuts from the Vault and drinks on Tap. 5 Culinary Hubs. 11 Beverage Taps. 1 BIG Party Brunch. Saturday | 1PM-4PM 971 50 642 1011 | 971 2 656 0000BRILLIANT BRUNCHES 12 February 15 – March 14 2023 timeoutabudhabi.com ANNEXBRILLIANT BRUNCHES timeoutabudhabi.com February 15 – March 14 2023 13 Best of When people ask us our favourite part about living in Abu Dhabi, lots of things come to mind, from the sandy shores of Saadiyat to the glistening malls dotted around the city. But if we’re being honest, most of our favourite things involve food – and brunching in particular. With cuisines on offer from across the globe, and menus to suit every palate (whether you have a sweet tooth or prefer to indulge in savoury dishes), there’s a Saturday brunch or lazy Sunday spread for you. And with our complete brunch guide, you won’t struggle to Ànd one, either. BY THE BEACH B-LOUNGE NEW Inspired by Sevilla, B-Lounge Saturday brunch is all about enjoying classic Spanish dishes by the beach. You’ll be able to kick off brunch your afternoon with salads, gazpacho and croquetas cooked in front of your eyes at live stations, before diving into your choice of meat, seafood or vegetable paella, all the while sipping on Spanish mixed drinks. O Dhs185 (soft drinks), Dhs285 (house beverages and Spanish mixed drinks). Every Sat 12.30pm-3.30pm. Sheraton Abu Dhabi Hotel & Resort, Al Zahiya (02 697 0364). TING IRIE Located in Mamsha Al Saadiyat, Ting Irie (which you may know from its original branch down the road in Dubai), is just steps away from the sandy shores and crystal clear waters of Soul Beach. The island daze brunch menu on Saturdays includes a three- course menu of Jamaican plates including watermelon feta salad, plantain nachos and jerk chicken followed by grater cake. Priced at Dhs225 with house beverages, including a number of mixed drinks options, we think this is a total bargain. O Dhs115 (soft drinks), Dhs225 (house beverages). Sat 1pm-5pm. Mamsha Al Saadiyat (02 886 7786). WEST BAY LOUNGE Ultra-cool beach club West Bay Lounge boasts views out to the Arabian Gulf and the iconic Rixos Marina Abu Dhabi, and we think they are best enjoyed during brunch. Held every Saturday between 1pm and 4pm, the revamped offering kicks off on a high note with oysters, bao buns and sushi before moving onto bigger plates like paella, pasta, tacos and freshly carved meats. Save room for the dessert if you’re a fan of rolled ice cream, churros and chocolate fudge cake (and who in the world isn’t?). O Dhs249 (soft drinks), Dhs379 (house beverages), Dhs479 (house beverages and bubbly). Dhs125 (kids aged six to 12). Every Sat 1pm-4pm. Radisson Blu Hotel & Resort Abu Dhabi Corniche (02 692 4375). WITH POOL ACCESS AMERIGOS Over at the Acapulco brunch at Amerigos, Whatever you’ve got a hankering for, Abu Dhabi has a brunch for youBRILLIANT BRUNCHES 14 February 15 – March 14 2023 timeoutabudhabi.com Grills@Chill’O you can expect a buffet of classic Mexican dishes including salads, tacos, Mexican rice and grilled meats before Ànishing on a sweet note with churros. Kids will love the chance to meet Jose, the restaurant’s mascot, and you can add on a pool pass for Dhs49 for adults or Dhs29 for kids. O Dhs199 (soft drinks), Dhs299 (house beverages), Dhs69 (kids). Sat 12.30pm-3.30pm. Park Inn by Radisson Blu, Yas Island (02 656 2000). CHOICES The Y Brunch at Choices and Blue Grill offers up plenty of, ahem, choice, with a buffet of international dishes. Once you’re done feasting, make use of the free pool access. O Dhs199 (hops and grape), Dhs299 (house beverages). Sat 12.30pm-4pm. Yas Island Rotana, Yas Island (02 656 4000). GRILLS@CHILL’O If you want to spend your Saturday afternoon soaking up the sun, we think brunch at Grills@ Chill’O might be just the ticket. Alongside a beautiful view and free pool access, the brunch ensoleillé covers basically every cuisine you could possibly want, from fresh seafood and sushi to Thai dishes and Turkish breads. We’re drooling already. O Dhs285 (soft drinks), Dhs125 (additional house beverage package), Dhs350 (additional bubbly package). Sat 1pm-4pm. SoÀtel Abu Dhabi Corniche, Corniche East (02 813 7777). KHAYAL This laidback Saturday brunch is another fantastic option for those who can’t quite decide what they feel like eating (or just want to eat it all), with oysters and caviar, fresh seafood, ramen, sushi and chaat. The Khayal brunch also offers up the chance to try dishes from the Marriott Al Forsan’s other outlets, with roasts from The Grill and pub grub from Appaloosa. There will be kids’ activities to keep your little ones busy, and the brunch also includes pool access. O Dhs275 (soft drinks), Dhs395 (house beverages), Dhs95 (kids six to 11). Sat 1pm-4pm. Marriott Hotel Al Forsan, Khalifa City (02 201 4131). SOFRA BLD If you’re more of a beach bum, you might just want to check out the brunch at Sofra bld which includes beach access. Aside from catching a tan, during brunch you’ll get to explore all of the live stations, with pizza, pasta, sushi and more alongside free-Áowing beverages. O Dhs298 (soft drinks), Dhs398 (house beverages), Dhs498 (bubbly). Sat 1pm-4pm. Shangri-La Qaryat Al Beri (02 509 8555). FAMILY FUN DINO’S There are not one, not two, but three opportunities to brunch at Dino’s over every weekend. The family- friendly brunch on Saturdays starts with coffee and light bites like calamari and buffalo mozzarella before moving onto pizza (of course!) and mains like chicken parmesan, the risotto of the day and roasted sea bream. À la carte dishes are served straight to your table, and your kids are no doubt bound to love this feast of pizza slices and pasta plates. O Dhs180 (afternoon brunch, soft drinks), Dhs190 (evening brunch, soft drinks), Dhs240 (afternoon brunch, bubbly), Dhs250 (evening brunch, house beverages), Dhs90 (afternoon brunch, kids), Dhs95 (evening brunch, kids). Fri 6pm onwards, Sat-Sun noon- 4pm. Pearl Rotana, Capital Centre (02 307 5551). KUZBARA The AUH brunch at Kuzbara promises to take you to destinations across the globe via your stomach, with a buffet of dishes including sushi, satay, curries, carvery and more. With a theme that changes monthly, you could visit Kuzbara again and again and never get bored. Wonder what February’s theme is? Destination Romance, of course. O Dhs265 (soft drinks), Dhs385 (house beverages), IN THE GARDEN Balcon Terrace The Southern Sun Abu Dhabi launched its Saturday brunch earlier this year, and you can expect live grill stations, fresh seafood, and lots of desserts. Plus, if you don’t want the afternoon to end, you can add on an after-brunch package with two hours of free-Áowing drinks and shisha. O Dhs160 (soft drinks), Dhs225 (house beverages), Dhs270 (premium grape), Dhs410 (bubbly). Sat 1pm-4pm, 4pm- 6pm. Southern Sun Abu Dhabi, Al Zahiyah (02 818 4888).BRILLIANT BRUNCHES timeoutabudhabi.com February 15 – March 14 2023 15 KhayalBRILLIANT BRUNCHES 16 February 15 – March 14 2023 timeoutabudhabi.com Market at EDITIONBRILLIANT BRUNCHES timeoutabudhabi.com February 15 – March 14 2023 17 Dhs425 (sparkling). Sat 12.30pm-4pm. Marriott Hotel Downtown (02 304 7777). SIDEKICKS We’re calling it: Sidekicks might just be the brunch for families in Abu Dhabi. The Saturday afternoon affair offers the opportunity for kids to meet iconic WB characters including Tom & Jerry, Bugs Bunny, Daffy Duck and Robin while enjoying a special menu with spaghetti meatballs, mini burgers, cotton candy and doughnuts, and there’s even a special arts and crafts activity corner. For adults, there’s a gigantic spread of kebabs, kabsa, pasta, pizza and pancakes, with desserts such as dark chocolate raspberry tart and vanilla crème brûlée. Perfect for big kids and little, the whole family will Ànd a lot to love here. O Dhs185 (soft drinks), Dhs290 (house beverages), Dhs395 (sparkling), Dhs92.5 (kids six to 12). Sat 1pm- 4pm. The WB Abu Dhabi, Yas Island (02 815 0000). STILLS Spend your days dreaming of your next meal? We can relate. Which is why we think you might just want to check out the daydream brunch at Stills, which features barbecued meats and live cooking stations serving up oysters, sushi, pasta, pizza, and much more. For little ones, there’s a special buffet of kid-friendly favourites, as well as lots of games and other activities. O Dhs189 (soft drinks), Dhs289 (house beverages), Dhs349 (bubbly), Dhs79 (kids six to 12). Sat 12.30pm-4pm. Crowne Plaza Hotel, Yas Island (02 656 3000). THE CAFÉ Thanks to its kids fair and live entertainment, The Café is an excellent family-friendly brunch option. Aside from keeping your youngsters busy, you can also expect breakfast classics (yes, this brunch is putting the breakfast Àrmly back into the portmanteau), and plenty of options for veggies. O Dhs375 (soft drinks), Dhs475 (house beverages). Sat 1pm-4.30pm. Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi, Saadiyat Island (02 407 1138). VENDÔME NEW The team behind the family fest brunch at Caesars Palace Bluewaters Dubai and the into the jungle brunch at Palazzo Versace Dubai are making their Àrst foray into Abu Dhabi with this new offering. The enchanted brunch at Vendôme will see kids sing and dance to their favourite Encanto songs at the fairytale corner, decorate cookies at the mini chef corner, and get their face painted at the, you guessed it, face painting corner. Alongside tonnes of activities, you can expect brilliant dishes like beef wellington, ratatouille and zesty lime shrimp. You and your kids won’t want to ever leave. O Dhs350 (soft drinks), Dhs450 (house beverages), Dhs550 (premium beverages), Dhs650 (bubbly), Dhs150 (kids four to 12). Sat 1pm-5pm. Emirates Palace, Abu Dhabi Corniche (050 836 1513). YAS LINKS Kids can’t keep still? There’ll have plenty of space to run around at the Yas Links’ family brunch. On the food front, expect an international buffet with live station, with a selection of dishes just for kids. O Dhs175 (soft drinks), Dhs285 (house beverages), Dhs89 (kids seven to 12). Sat noon-3pm. Yas Island (02 404 3077). FOR FOODIES ALBA TERRACE The three-hour experience at Alba Terrace will whisk you away to the Mediterranean, particularly if you nab a seat on the outdoor terrace. Through the course of the afternoon, you’ll get to try the signature charcuterie board, burrata, herb- crusted veal chop Milanese and the legendary pizza, all while sipping on the Italian mixed drinks this spot is known for. O Dhs245 (soft drinks), Dhs365 (house beverages), Dhs465 (bubbly). Sat 12.30pm-5pm. The Abu Dhabi EDITION, Al Bateen Marina (02 208 0000). AQUA Served with a side of fantastic views over the water from Al Maryah Island, the garden brunch at Aqua starts with oysters, seafood and salads before moving onto sushi, Peking duck and dim sum. While you enjoy the food, your youngsters will be able to make the most of the kids’ club. O Dhs255 (soft drinks), Dhs355 (house beverages), Dhs455 (premium beverages). Rosewood Abu Dhabi, Al Maryah Island (02 813 5575). BUTCHER & STILL Looking to impress? Then brunch at Butcher & Still should be at the top of your list. The interiors at this gorgeous 1920s Chicago- inspired steakhouse is just begging to be photographed, as is the view from the outdoor terrace. The live band will be performing as you tuck into sizzling cuts. O Dhs310 (food only), Dhs395 (house beverages), Dhs550 (bubbly). Sat 1pm-4pm. Four Seasons Hotel Abu Dhabi at Al Maryah Island (02 333 2700). CRUST Another option over at the Four Seasons on Al Maryah Island, the Crust brunch serves up the best of the Middle East, Asia and more at its buffet. O Dhs245 (soft drinks), Dhs340 (house beverages). Sat 1pm-4pm. Four Seasons Hotel Abu Dhabi at Al Maryah Island (02 333 2222). GIORNETTE With freshly shucked oysters, pan-fried foie gras and wagyu beef, foodies will absolutely adore the chef’s brunch at Giornette. O Dhs350 (soft drinks), Dhs450 (house, sparkling), Dhs650 (bubbly). Sat 1pm-4pm. The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal, Al Maqta (02 818 8203). LPM Despite drawing inspiration from La Vie En Rose, rose-tinted glasses aren’t necessary at LPM: The food really is that good. You’ll share a selection of starters, including escargots, burrata and tomato toast, and salmon carpaccio, before your choice of main course and side (our pick would be the sirloin steak with dauphinoise potatoes, but the arrabbiata pasta is a great option for vegetarians). Round off your French feast with desserts such as cheesecake, French toast and pistachio cake. O Dhs375 (soft drinks), Dhs450 (house beverages), Dhs575 (bubbly). Sat noon-4.30pm. The Galleria Al Maryah Island (02 692 9600). MARKET AT EDITION The city’s only completely vegan brunch is obviously a great option for plant-based folks, but we think meat-eaters will be pleasantly surprised by the tasty dishes on offer during the two-hour experience. After trying the cauliÁower tabbouleh, charred aubergine steak and black rice pudding, you won’t miss cheese for a moment. O Dhs155 (soft drinks), Dhs255 (house “The city’s only completely vegan brunch will pleasantly surprise meat-eaters with its creative (and tasty) dishes”BRILLIANT BRUNCHES 18 February 15 – March 14 2023 timeoutabudhabi.com beverages). Sat-Sun 1pm-5pm. The Abu Dhabi EDITION, Al Bateen Marina (02 208 0000). MARKET KITCHEN With award-winning chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten behind the menu, you can expect some really delicious (and inventive) dishes at Market Kitchen. The modern American menu changes weekly, but there are options for both vegetarians and meat-eaters. O Dhs250 (soft drinks), Dhs350 (house beverages), Dhs450 (bubbly). Sat 12.30pm-4pm. Le Royal Méridien Abu Dhabi, Al Danah (800 101101). NAHAAM What do you picture when you think of British food? Bangers and mash? Fish and chips? Shepherd’s pie? Whatever it is, you’ll most probably Ànd it at Nahaam’s Blighty- themed brunch. Alongside classics like beef wellington, chicken tikka masala and jam roly polys, you can try international favourites such as pasta, pizza and sushi. Wearing red, white and blue is optional. O Dhs375 (soft drinks), Dhs495 (house beverages), Dhs765 (bubbly). Sat 12.30pm-4pm. Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers, West Corniche Road (02 811 5666). SHANG PALACE Promising Cantonese specialties Àt for an emperor, the peking social brunch at Shang Palace includes tasty dim sum (both fried and steamed), wok-fried plates like Sichuan spicy beef and fried chilli bean tofu, and roasted duck carved tableside. Save room for traditional desserts including custard egg tarts and mantou. O Dhs198 (soft drinks), Dhs298 (house beverages), Dhs99 (kids six to 12). Sat noon-3pm. Shangri-La Qaryat Al Beri (02 509 8555). SIM SIM With live stations dedicated to sushi, fresh seafood, barbecued meats, Mexican dishes, pasta and more, we think it’s actually impossible to try everything at the Sim Sim market brunch on Saturdays. But everything is so delicious we imagine you’ll want to keep coming back again and again to tick it all off and Ànd your favourites. O Dhs390 (soft drinks), Dhs515 (house beverages), Dhs615 (bubbly), Dhs195 (kids six to 11). Sat 1pm- 4pm. Saadiyat Rotana Resort & Villas, Saadiyat Island (02 697 0000). TEATRO The Saturday evening brunch at Teatro takes you through the eatery’s signature dishes from across Àve cuisines: Thai, Japanese Sushi, Chinese, Indian and Italian. That means beef satay, chicken siu mai, butter chicken, and lots and lots of sushi. You’ll leave feeling very full (and very happy). O Dhs195 (soft drinks), Dhs295 (house beverages), Dhs120 (kids six to 12). Sat 6pm-11pm. Park Rotana Abu Dhabi, Khalifa City (02 657 3317). THE DIRECTOR’S CLUB The WB Abu Dhabi promises an elevated feast at The Director’s Club. Begin your brunch with a welcome drink from the tower of bubbly before diving into sharing appetisers of oysters, beef tartare and trufÁe mac and cheese croquettes. For mains, it’s all about the meat, with Josper-grilled Áank steak, whole roasted sea bass or chargrilled Tomahawk steak carved tableside. Veggie options are also available, and you’ll Ànish with a trip to America through New York cheesecake, key lime pie and s’mores. O Dhs275 (soft drinks), Dhs375 (premium beverages), Dhs475 (bubbly). Sat 1pm-4pm. The WB Abu Dhabi, Yas Island (02 815 0000). THE TERRACE ON THE CORNICHE Mixed drinks fans, this one’s for you. After trying barrel-aged mixed drinks, the only way is up, with dishes including fresh oysters and tomahawk steak with foie gras. O Dhs275 (soft drinks), Dhs400 (house beverages), Dhs550 (premium beverages). The St. Regis Abu Dhabi (02 694 4553). URBAN KITCHEN For longtime residents of Abu Dhabi, the Urban Kitchen brunch needs no introduction. For the rest of you, you can expect an epic buffet with cheese and cold cuts, fresh seafood, carvery dishes and pan-Asian plates followed by delicious desserts. This brunch TeatroJUAN DIEGO FLÓREZ AND FRIENDS Wednesday March 1, 8pm Peruvian operatic tenor, Juan Diego Flórez will perform a 120-minute concert with an orchestra. From Dhs75. Emirates Palace, Corniche Road, Abu Dhabi. DE SCHEHERAZADE A YO, CARMEN, BY MARÍA PAGÉS Friday March 10, 8pm One of the world’s finest contemporary flamenco shows. From Dhs75. Emirates Palace, Corniche Road, Abu Dhabi. GREGORY PORTER Saturday March 11, 8pm Two-time Grammy Award-winning jazz musician Gregory Porter makes his UAE debut. From Dhs75. Emirates Palace, Corniche Road, Abu Dhabi. FROM WEST TO EAST: A CLASSICAL ODYSSEY Friday March 17, 8pm Composer Tan Dun conducts the Orchestra of Teatro Comunale di Modena Pavarotti-Freni through an iconic repertorie. From Dhs75. Emirates Palace, Corniche Road, Abu Dhabi. BUDDHA PASSION BY TAN DUN Saturday March 18, 10pm Classical music delivered in six acts, Dun explores six Buddha parables and stories through sound. From Dhs75. Emirates Palace, Corniche Road, Abu Dhabi. Next >