As one of the fanciest hotels in the capital, it’s always a joy to visit the Rosewood Abu Dhabi on Al Maryah Island.
And on our visit to the Garden Brunch (which is indoors during the summer), it’s buzzing with happy diners. From the moment we are handed a refreshing welcome drink, we know we’re in for a very relaxing Friday afternoon with the family.
The dining room offers panoramic views of the city skyline and glittering waters around the island, while in winter the terrace is a top spot to sit with the gang.
The Rose Buds kids’ offering includes a dedicated children’s section, where there’s a Charlie and the Chocolate Factory-like dessert corner with pick ‘n’ mix sweets, fresh crêpes, waffles and pancakes, mini ice cream cups, pastries and an impressive range of fun games and activities.
For adults, the house beverages package is decent and includes grape, plus a selection of infused juniper beverages, which you can pick up from live stations.
There are loads of fresh salads choose from to start, including chunks of beef and chicken, quinoa, sundried tomatoes, feta cheese and a huge selection of dressings. The marinated cold salmon is delicious, while hummus and soft Arabic bread goes down a treat.
But there are loads of starters that aren’t quite as guilt-free but equally tasty, including piles of nachos slathered in cheese, salsa, guacamole and sour cream, and fresh pasta in various shapes and sizes.
If you feel like you’ve had your five a day and it’s time to change tack, approach the carving stations.
Here there is some wonderfully tender beef brisket (it tastes like it has been cooking for hours and hours) and a piece of amazing fresh sea bass, wrapped in a banana leaf.
But the sweet roasted beetroot and carrots to pile on the side are almost as good as the meat and fish, and the crispy, fluffy roasties get a huge thumbs up, too.
Chefs at the live stations are pleased to answer any questions and offer suggestions, and it’s well worthy sampling some of the tasty morsels from the barbecue station. Heading here is a very good move – don’t miss the freshly grilled steak, it is utterly superb, though the lobster’s on the chewy side and is best avoided.
If you have room, there’s a tasty-looking selection of Indian dishes such as butter chicken, vegetable curry and more.
If you love fromage, save space for the cheese counter. Here we’re pleased to recognise several varieties from the nightly grape and cheese event at La Cava (which is worth making a date at, it’s excellent). We treat ourselves to a few generous chunks of our favourites, along with a some fresh bread rolls, crackers and honey.
Top picks from the dessert table include an incredibly creamy umm Ali and an inspired mix of apple crumble with cold custard. There’s also a variety of ice creams and a display of very pretty minature cakes.
Not everything hits the heights of the sea bass or cheese selection, but you’re all guaranteed to leave this brunch totally stuffed and very content.
Dhs205 (soft drinks), Dhs285 (house beverages). Fri 1pm-5pm. Rosewood Abu Dhabi, Al Maryah Island (02 813 5550).
WHAT IS IT…
A buffet of all the best dishes from around the globe, set against a backdrop of the city skyline
WHY GO…
For the cheese table and the extensive kids’ dessert selection
