It’s the most wonderful time of the year once more in Dubai — and not just because of the upcoming holidays. Extreme 40°C desert temperatures are finally dropping to a more manageable climate, which means we can stop over-blasting the air conditioning indoors and enjoy a well-deserved terrace season. The best way to take advantage of the cooler weather? Brunch al fresco. Friday brunch in Dubai is a celebrated staple for locals and residents alike, taking foodies on an exciting culinary journey for a few hours every weekend. As a gastronomic hub not just in the Middle East but across the world, Dubai has its fair share of internationally renowned eateries as well as homegrown delights. Dive into our roundup of the best outdoor brunches to experience before the city heats up yet again:
1. Ramusake: Sample contemporary Japanese bites and bottomless beverages with an izakaya menu at this secret hideaway among the treetops of JBR with panoramic vistas of Bluewaters Island and what will be the world’s largest Ferris wheel, the Dubai Eye. Fresh sushi platters, sizzling robata skewers, and inventive gyozas—not to mention a separate vegan menu—makes this a must-visit spot for even the pickiest eater.
2. Flair No. 5: The worst kept secret in Dubai, Flair No. 5’s Secret Garden brunch in the courtyard of The Ritz-Carlton DIFC invites guests to enter a hidden plant wall and escape into the wild. Enjoy a new menu featuring three courses of unlimited plates in a personal cabana with comfy lounge-style seating while live entertainment and a DJ spinning upbeat tracks far after the usual brunch timings beckon you to the dance floor.
3. Ruya: Share traditional Anatolian dishes with a modern twist at Rüya’s rendition of the Istanbul Grand Bazaar for uninterrupted views of the Dubai Marina and a delectable treat from the Chef from Taksim Square.
4. Summersault: Indulge in a mini staycation along with a fusion of international flavors at Jumeirah Al Naseem’s trendy beach club for a day of great eats, beats, and seascapes. Take a dip in their inviting pool and stroll on their private beach boasting unrivaled views of the Burj Al Arab with all-afternoon access to both after an exclusive three-course set menu and limitless select drinks.
5. La Cantine du Faubourg: If Friday brunch wasn’t enough, head to La Cantine du Faubourg’s chic Saturday brunch, where you can roll out of your bed and into their giant four-poster one in the restaurant’s center for a unique “breakfast in bed” experience. Enjoy a lazy afternoon on the garden terrace as pajama-clad waitstaff serve Parisian delicacies amidst live music and an eclectic art gallery.
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6. Ammos: Whether guests join Ammos for their afternoon or evening brunch, they are transported to the charm of idyllic Mediterranean-island living as they taste authentic Greek fare from light mezzes to masterful seafood mains.
7. Traiteur: Frequently commended as one of the best brunches in Dubai, Traiteur’s expansive buffet featuring an overflowing seafood bar of oysters, lobster, and caviar as well as a fire-roasting section and dedicated cheese and grape room all overlooking the picturesque sights of the Creek and surrounding yacht club, will not only satisfy your appetite that weekend but also the next few weekends to come.
8. All’Onda: We don’t know which is better: The unparalleled 360-degree Palm and Marina views from the Emerald Palace Kempinski’s rooftop terrace or the innovative spin on Venetian cuisine from well-established executive chef Chris Jaeckle at this opulent brunch fit for royalty.
9. Coya: Although this Peruvian hotspot is usually a coveted dinner destination, its brunch featuring imaginative seasonal-inspired menus, mixologists crafting creative cocktails, and resident DJs boosting the vibe among Dubai’s glittering skyline will call you to the Four Seasons in the daytime.
10. Sarabeth’s: Nestled in the corner of City Walk is New York A-listers’ favorite casual brunch spot, Sarabeth’s. Tuck into classic American breakfast dishes from the award-winning chef, including her signature fat-and-fluffy french toast and eggs benedict variations amid the buzz of downtown. Just don’t forget to pick up a jar of the famed two-century-old family recipe for homemade orange-apricot marmalade before you leave.
11. Tasca: Savor Dubai’s first Portuguese brunch with Michelin-starred chef José Avillez for a hand-picked tasting menu and popular fruity blends while basking in the sun next to the Mandarin Oriental’s infinity pool perfectly blending into the crystal-blue waters of the Gulf.
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