Brunch is an Abu Dhabi tradition that can mean something completely different depending on where you go. One weekend might call for sushi, music and a little dancing, while another is better suited to a leisurely afternoon of French-Mediterranean dishes.
Having made my way around the capital to try some of the city’s brunches, we’ve found a few that genuinely stood out. Venturing from Yas Island to the Corniche, here are some of the top brunches I’ve visited so far in Abu Dhabi.
SUSHISAMBA’s Rio Brunch
SUSHISAMBA’s Rio Brunch is one for anyone who thinks brunch should feel like a proper occasion. The atmosphere is colourful, energetic and unapologetically fun, with music and entertainment adding plenty of movement to the afternoon.
For me, the food is where this one really wins. Sushi lovers are, of course, well looked after, with beautifully prepared Japanese dishes alongside the restaurant’s Brazilian and Peruvian influences.
There is plenty to explore, but the overall experience never feels too serious. It’s a brunch where the food is excellent, the room is buzzing, and you leave feeling like you have actually had an afternoon out.
For further information and reservations, visit RIO BRUNCH | SUSHISAMBA Abu Dhabi.
Timings: Every Saturday from 12.30 PM – 4.00 PM
Location: Conrad, Etihad Towers, Al Bateen, Abu Dhabi
Garage’s B.I.G. Brunch
Garage’s B.I.G. Brunch is another where the clue is very much in the name. With multiple culinary stations, plenty of choice, and music providing the soundtrack, a lot is happening here.
The best bit is the sheer fun and let-your-hair-down feel. There is a great variety of food, the atmosphere builds throughout the afternoon and, of course, the location at W Abu Dhabi puts you right alongside Yas Marina Circuit.
That setting gives the whole experience an added sense of occasion, almost as though you have been given a VIP pass to the weekend.
For further information and reservations, visit Garage | W Abu Dhabi Yas Island.
Timings: Every Saturday from 1.00 PM – 4.00 PM
Location: W Abu Dhabi, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi
LPM Abu Dhabi’s La Vie En Rosé
La Vie En Rosé is the brunch of choice when the priority is food and a little sophistication. LPM brings a Sunday taste of the French Riviera to Al Maryah Island, with an elegant setting and a menu that rewards anyone who likes taking their time over a meal.
There is something wonderfully delicate about the experience. The service is attentive and offers classic French-Mediterranean favourites and more inventive plates.
Add in the atmosphere, somewhere between Riviera glamour and the intimacy of a Parisian side street, and you have a brunch that feels particularly special.
For further information and reservations, visit La Vie en Rosé Brunch at LPM Abu Dhabi.
Timings: Every Sunday from 11.00 AM – 4.30 PM
Location: The Galleria Al Maryah Island, Abu Dhabi
Barbossa’s Saturday Brunch
If authentic Mexican food is what you are after, Barbossa is one I would have no hesitation recommending. The food is packed with flavour, the atmosphere is lively, and the Yas Bay location makes it particularly easy to turn the event into a full Saturday-afternoon outing.
The DJ keeps the energy moving without drowning out the experience, whilst the setting means you can head out for a wander afterwards if you are not quite ready to call it a day.
It’s a family-friendly destination, making this a great option when you want good food and a relaxed afternoon that everyone can enjoy.
For further information and reservations, visit Saturday Brunch at Barbossa.
Timings: Every Saturday from 1.00 PM – 5.00 PM
Location: Barbossa Abu Dhabi, Yas Bay Waterfront, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi
We’ve done the eating, sipping and dancing, and these brunches have earned their place on our approved list. Now all that’s left to do is pick your weekend mood, gather your crew, and let the afternoon take care of itself.
And all we want to know is……which Abu Dhabi brunch should we put to the test next?
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