with winter comes comes the return of one of our favourite pastimes – al fresco brunching. And there are few places better to sit and enjoy the winter sun, with the fam – and a massive platter of food in front of you – than at The Market Brunch at the Saadiyat Rotana.
A pretty terrace sits amid the lush green gardens of the sprawling resort – with a view of the swimming pool lending a chilled-out holiday vibe. The setting makes for a relaxing Friday – and come hungry as there’s plenty you’ll want try at this massive buffet brunch. So much so that there’s a map of live stations and counters on the table and signposts, should you happen to get lost between the cheese and the roast dinner.
Inside the restaurant is bustling with families and groups all enjoying an afternoon out.
While there’s everything you can think of at this extensive market-style buffet the seafood is the star of the show, and where this brunch shines.
A huge counter of chilled seafood is brimming with baby octopus, calamari, gigantic mussels, crabs legs and plump, juicy prawns. There’s also smoked salmon, tuna tartare, sushi and a dedicated oyster bar.
We’d suggest you kick off with this pescatarian selection – it’s wonderfully fresh and tasty. If you’re not a fish fan, fret not, as there’s plenty more to satsify you, from mounds of crisp salads to smooth and creamy hummus, tangy stuffed vineleaves, steaming pillowy dim sum and charred satay.
Love Indian food? Take a gander to the far side of the restaurant and sample some grilled paneer or rich, fragrant butter chicken. Fancy an Arabic grill? There’s a shawarma station outside. Really, it’s all superb, which is impressive for an operation of this size.
There’s also a dedicated fish market-style counter.
Choose your catch, take it outside to the grill and await your lunch.
If you’ve followed your plan correctly, you should have room for cheese. And if you have, congratulations, both for your self-restraint and for the rewards you’ll get. Gooey brie, burrata and a massive Parmesan wheel make up some of your choices.
Kids are well catered for with plenty of bite-sized dishes and colourful desserts.
With a lively vibe, fantastic food and a super setting this brunch is well worth trying.
Free (kids under five). Dhs165 (kids six-11). (Dhs350 (soft drinks), Dhs495 (house beverages), Dhs595 (bubbly). Fri 1pm-4pm. Saadiyat Rotana Resort & Villas, Saadiyat Island (02 697 0000).
WHAT IS IT…
Large, family-friendly buffet brunch that’s ideal for winter weather
WHY GO…
The seafood. And the cheese. And the setting. Just go already
