Eat. Play. Laugh. A moniker that brings with it high expectations when it comes to Friday brunch. But while there’s a lot of eating going on at Kuzbara, we’re not too sure about the other elements – there’s virtually no entertainment on our most recent visit, leaving us slightly confused by the name.
The all-day dining restaurant is a long, narrow space with views over the main road, so it’s not the most picturesque of locations, but it’s nice, bright and airy of a lunchtime.
Brunchgoers are mostly in large parties, but despite the big groups it’s surprisingly quiet – we came expecting a party brunch.
A sole hops pong table doesn’t see much action over the afternoon, while a dart board with a single dart is also left looking rather lonely, much like the magician who doesn’t interact with us. Outside there’s a kids’ area with a playpen, Jenga and Connect Four. There aren’t any kids at the brunch on our visit.
Service is friendly and efficient, with drinks being topped up frequently, though and there’s a happy vibe about the place.
And the food is excellent.
The buffet isn’t overwhelming but has plenty of choice and will please even the fussiest of eaters with everything from curries to roast dinners.
Salads are super-fresh and vibrant, while the aforementioned curries are tasty and spicy. The roast station is a popular choice, too, with huge Yorkshire puddings and massive onion rings to go with the meats.
Our highlight of the afternoon is the live laksa station – select chicken or prawns, veg and noodles and watch as they ladle in rich, spicy, coconutty soup into your bowl. It’s fragrant and delicious.
The cheese table is also well stocked with heaps of hard and soft cheese, jams, nuts, fruit and crackers.
There are a range of mixed drinks on offer, and there’s a mixed drinks bar you can visit to choose your own as well.
Plus, if you keep your brunch wristband on and head to Velocity you’ll get a free drink after brunch.
With good grub and lots of drinks. there are positives here, but if you don’t manage to take advantage of one of the regualr two-for-one deals, there are better value options out there.
Dhs260 (soft drinks), Dhs375 (house beverages), Dhs415 (sparkling), Dhs90 (kids aged six-12). Fri 12.30pm-4pm. Marriott Downtown Abu Dhabi (02 304 7777).
