Daycation or brunch? There’s no need to choose between two of Abu Dhabi’s favourite pastimes with the Saturday brunch at Zaya Nurai Island’s Frangipani.
It starts with a quick boat ride to the private island. (Included in the brunch package, and you can explore after.) You must reserve and prepay in full, and it’s worth bearing in mind that payment is non-refundable.
But hopefully, you won’t be cancelling, because this is a suits-every-mood space, attracting a real mix of a crowd, from the dressed-up to the barely dressed at all, thanks to Frangipani’s proximity to the beach.
While this buffet brunch isn’t as large as some, there are plenty of cold mezze, Mexican dishes, tropical fruits and a top French-inspired dessert station. When you get here, be sure to say oui to gateaux.
Elsewhere, the quality-over-quantity ethos makes it a bit easier to spot gaps in the experience, from a lack of accompaniments for the excellent selection of cheese, to a small, and not particularly high end variety of maki.
As in many places at the moment, there’s a degree of confusion about serving, despite signs promoting staff serve. Generally, the experience would benefit from the team taking a bit more of a lead.
Frangipani’s brunch has a mixed drinks cart and grills outside, which are hard to miss on the way in, but seem quickly forgotten by many diners.
Kids have a small section, but the general buffet has food that should appeal to all. This is a family-friendly brunch. Just don’t let the kiddos see the burgers coming out to all-day diners. (Adults too will struggle not to ogle them.)
Remember to order drinks before 4pm then park yourself in a sun lounger.
Just make sure you’re up for the last boat ride back. Unfortunately, you do have to leave.
Dhs450 (soft drinks), Dhs550 (mixed drinks), Dhs750 (sparkling). Sat 12.30-4pm, Licensed. Frangipani, Zaya Nurai Island, Nurai Island, zayanuraiisland.com (02 506 6222).
