If you’re looking for a more casual hang-out for Mother’s Day, then we suggest heading for a fun family day out at Irish-American gastropub Sportsman’s Arms, which is the worthy recipient of the Time Out Abu Dhabi Best Family Restaurant in 2016.
Firstly, it has a kids’ playground, which is few and far between at dining outlets around the city. While mum and dad relax in the spacious pub atmosphere, or outside on the barbecue terrace, the sprogs can entertain themselves and work up an appetite.
Secondly, it has some great, kid-friendly grub that will make even the fussiest of little eaters happy. From breakfast through to dinnertime, there’s the likes of pancake stacks, hearty sandwiches, mac ‘n’ cheese, even grilled items and a weekend roast.
We’re here during a weekday lunchtime, when the venue is relatively quiet. On the terrace, however, there’s still some atmosphere – and the tempting smells of the barbecue.
The lunch menu offers a selection of dishes, from the lighter superfood salad to the USDA black angus burger for the really hungry. We opt for the fish and chips and a “cheeky” grilled cheese sandwich.
While we’ve eaten plenty to impress us at Sportsman’s Arms over the years, these dishes aren’t exactly up to the usual standards.
The fish, while juicy and flaky within, has oily and almost-chewy batter, which is unpleasant to eat. Having said that, the proper chunky chips doused in salt and vinegar are excellent.
Meanwhile, the sandwich comes with chipotle shredded beef cheeks, roasted peppers and Monterey Jack cheese. It’s decent, but could have packed in more flavour.
The service, on the other hand, can’t be faulted, as the staff are attentive and helpful. There’s plenty to like here, but we’ll order differently next time.
The bill (for two)
1x fish and chips Dhs70
1x cheeky grilled cheese Dhs60
Total (excluding taxes) Dhs130
The bottom line
It’s a great spot for families to relax.
