With an emphasis on atmosphere, having fun and, of course, the fabled ‘craic’, it is fair to say that Irish pubs are made for the concept of brunch.
Unlimited food and free-flowing drink, there might not be a more perfect marriage in the entire hospitality world.
Nestling in the corner, just a short walk from the Dusit Thani’s reception, one of the great features of McGettigan’s is its versatility for its punters.
Be it for a quiet drink after work, some razzle dazzle for gals to get together on ladies’ night, or a Friday brunch to really let loose, all comers will find a niche and a spot for their preferences here.
We arrive slightly later than kick-off time of 12.30pm (because it’s fashionable) and are guided to our seats. It’s a little bit quiet which to some can be a bit of disappointment, but it allows us to quickly settle in which is ultimately what you want from the opening forays of a Friday brunch.
The brunch provides a set menu with four starters, four mains and a quartet of desserts that are served to the table, which means all you have to do is sit back and stuff your face. The staff takes the order for both starters and mains at the same time so when you regain your second wind, the main is pretty much ready to be delivered.
We kick off with the flash-fried crispy calamari with herb aioli and lemon edge and cheesy arancini balls with spicy tomato sauce, parmesan and basil oil.
The arancini balls explode with flavour as the melted cheese goes everywhere (the cheesier the better in our books). Every bite seems to get better and better. The calamari is just as good and not at all chewy.
We’re offered a top up of balls and in another time and place we would have no problems putting on our best Oliver Twist impressions, but we have a main to take on even though the starters have filled a considerable gap.
The mains come out and we know we are defeated before we dig in. The chef isn’t messing around with these portions. They’re enormous. Slow cooked Irish beef rib-eye is super-tender and the grilled salmon fillet has that crispy skin when it’s done just right. With bellies on the point of bursting, dessert has to be turned down sadly because the sticky toffee pudding looks comforting and homely.
Staff are friendly with no such thing as an empty glass ever appearing on the table, enabling the brunch to live up to the billing of free-flowing drinks. Their willingness to engage in a bit of craic is what you need and expect from any good Irish bar.
Alas, the brunch comes to an end. We hang around for a little while longer because we are enjoying the vibe… but also unable to move. With grub better than you might think, this is a taste of the Emerald Isle to check out.
Dhs220 (soft drinks). Dhs280 (house beverages) Dhs360 (premium beverages package). Fri 12.30pm-4pm. Dusit Thani Abu Dhabi, Sultan Bin Zayed The First Street (02 698 8888).
