Abu Dhabi’s brunch offering is as expansive as it is intricate.
When it comes to starting your day right, Abu Dhabi has you covered. From poached eggs to pancakes; shakshouka to chbaab, the city is bursting with delicious menus and quaint locations, guaranteed to satisfy any and all cravings. Inspired by the local brunch fare of cities around the world, Abu Dhabi’s offering is as expansive as it is intricate. Intertwining classic dishes and local ingredients, restaurants around the capital are well versed in the art of brunch. Whether you’re a resident on the lookout for something new, or a visitor stopping by, here are six of the best places to get your brunch fix in Abu Dhabi.
Tashas Cafe
Favored by both locals and expats, this boutique South African franchise has made its mark in the Middle East with restaurants across Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Housed in a spacious setting with plenty of natural light peering through floor-to-ceiling windows, the Tashas experience is one that looks as good as it tastes. With something for everyone, diners can choose from a wide array of options, from classics such as creamed avocado on toast to regional favorites such as the hummus and feta toastie.
Must-try: Brioche french toast; served with mixed berries or Italian cherry preserve & crème anglaise, AED 58.
Cafe Arabia
Specializing in Middle Eastern classics such as Shakshouka and Saj, Cafe Arabia is a one-stop-shop for all your brunch needs. With its cozy furnishings and classic vibe, the restaurant features a versatile menu with a little bit of something for everyone. Located opposite Al Mushrif Children’s Park, diners are afforded the option of outdoor or indoor seating; particularly ideal in the cooler winter months.
Must-try: Turkish poached eggs; on a bed of roasted aubergine and labneh, topped with spices, AED 45.
Shakespeare & Co
Boasting a number of locations all across the UAE, this highly famed cafe is known for its pursuits, both in the culinary and decorative departments. Donning a Marie Antoinette inspired vibe, Shakespeare and Co. invites diners into an intricately crafted realm, full of French cafe fare and perfectly crafted recipes. With an expansive menu comprising numerous options, brunch enthusiasts can enjoy everything from foul medammas to eggs florentine.
Must-try: Steak and eggs; served with hash browns, mushrooms, grilled tomatoes and hollandaise sauce, AED 65.
Jones the Grocer
With restaurants around Dubai and Abu Dhabi, Jones the Grocer is well known across the UAE for its Australian charm and delicious food. Embodying a sleek and sophisticated look, the restaurant is home to a stylish deli and expansive menu, both oriented around fresh, quality ingredients. Diners can choose from a number of sweet and savory options, from acai bowls to scrambled eggs.
Must try: Arabian mornings; spicy tomato chickpeas, grilled halloumi, beef chorizo sausages, poached eggs, labneh, crushed pistachio on multigrain toast, AED 62.
St Regis Brunch in The Clouds
A highly curated culinary escapade occurring every second Friday, the St. Regis’ Brunch in The Clouds is as whimsical as it sounds. Hosted in the hotel’s Abu Dhabi suite, guests are invited to enjoy a private dining experience rooted in gastronomic excellence; from seafood selections including lobster and oysters to a wide variety of sushi combinations. Hosted in limited numbers, this experience is not one to miss.
St. Regis Brunch in The Clouds, AED 345 per person.
Alba Terrace
An all-day affair spanning 12.30pm to 8pm, the Alba Terrace brunch is all about sophisticated dining. With its locally sourced coffee and refined offering, the restaurant effortlessly trades in the notion of all-you-can-eat for something a little more health-conscious. Its multi-course format includes sharing style dishes, and guests can indulge in a range of Mediterranean delights from ricotta-stuffed heirloom tomatoes to beetroot gnocchi.
Alba Terrace Brunch; AED 250 per person.
