If your new year’s resolution is to spend more time with the fam, then why not start with the most important meal of the day? Here are seven family-friendly breakfast spots to enjoy with the kids this weekend. For more family-friendly activities in Abu Dhabi click here.
Jones the Grocer
This Aussie chain is popular with families all across the UAE, thanks in part to its top deal where kids eat free with every two adult meals bought. But it’s also a fave due to its special kids’ menu, friendly service and chilled-out vibe. Plus, you can buy delicious goodies and sweet treats to take away to enjoy when you get home. It’s the breakfast that keeps on giving – you know where we will be on Friday. Plus this month there’s a special French toast menu, so really your only choice is sweet or savoury.
Various locations including Holiday Inn Downtown Abu Dhabi and Al Mamoura, www.jonesthegrocer.com.
Leen’s Casual to Gourmet
This fresh and funky restaurant has a chilled-out Cailfornia vibe and a varied menu that boasts healthy breakfast bowls, burgers and vegan-friendly options like the vegan breakfast board, which is tasty and filling, and fits perfectly with any Veganuary goals. And we love the nutritious freshly-squeezed juices that are a great way to kick-start your day the healthy way.
The World Trade Center, Abu Dhabi (02 632 5980).
Molten Chocolate Café
This cocoa-focused café is a popular spot with families. The famous chain has two branches in Abu Dhai and serves up everything from hot chocolates, fondues, cakes, desserts to snacks. But it’s not all chocolate. There are savoury brekkie dishes the kids will love like boiled eggs and brioche soldiers, filled croissants and French toast. And for mums and dads, there are savoury crêpes, omelettes and even a full fried breakfast for Dhs54. There are loads of sweet crepes and waffles too.
Open daily 10am-10pm. Bawadi Mall, Al Ain; Dalma Mall, Abu Dhabi; www.appareluae.com.
Parker’s
The chances of finding a breakfast menu in the UAE (or anywhere in the world, for that matter) that lacks avocado toast are slim to none. The ubiquitous green fruit’s star shows no sign of waning – and although we’re aware that ordering it is not savvy shopping, we can’t help but resist it when dining out. We also love the tropical, tasty açai bowls and variety of egg options. Sweet tooth? Opt for the chocolate brownie-topped pancakes and prepare to have a nap later on. They’re absolutely massive and will keep any chocolate fan happy. Don’t say we didn’t warn you – these are worth shunning the January diet for.
Various locations including Umm Al Emarat Park, Abu Dhabi (050 136 9166).
Raw by Nolu’s
Nestled next to Abu Dhabi’s Al Seef Mall and mere metres away from two gyms, the healthier branch of Nolu’s has managed to bag a perfect location. While many might just call in for a post-workout smoothie to go, we like to take a seat in the cosy indoor area or on the sunny terrace, and start our day with some of the wholesome breakfast options. The edamame explosion toast is exceptionally tasty, and something a bit different to your usual eggs and bread. It’s joined by poached egg, and tomatoes and layered on a chia seed bagel for a fun, and healthy, take on breakfast.
Al Seef Village, Khalifa Park area (02 444 8080).
tashas
With a gorgeous location at Al Bateen marina, there’s very often a wait for a table at the Abu Dhabi branch of this popular South African café (and expect one at Dubai branches, too). There’s a no reservation policy, but your patience will certainly be rewarded with a long list of healthy and tasty breakfast dishes. We often go for the mariachi eggs to kick off our day with a bit of fire and colour. Scrambled eggs are mixed with chilli, avocado, parmesan, spring onions and tomatoes, and served with warm tortillas. There’s also cooked breakfasts with bacon and sausages, omelettes, açai bowls and delightful brioche French toast.
You’ll want to return every weekend.
Various locations including Al Marsa, Al Bateen, Abu Dhabi (02 445 0890).
The Scene
Boiled eggs and soldiers might remind you mornings round your nan’s, but that’s all the more reason to stop by this spot for brekkie. This Yas Marina restaurant from British TV chef Simon Rimmer, The Scene’s long and lazy breakfasts are popular with families on a weekend. Dishes include pancakes, egg sandwiches and beans on toast, so there’s sure to be something to satisfy the whole gang on the menu here and there are top views to boot. Why not go on a stroll to work up an appetite first?
Yas Marina, Abu Dhabi (02 565 1330).
