Unlimited drinks, a fun, buzzy atmosphere, and a brunch that won’t blow your entire weekend budget: Cho Gao Marina Walk strives to deliver with its Friday evening brunch, happening from 7pm to 11pm. Come early and come hungry to the pan-Asian spot in InterContinental Abu Dhabi or reserve a table on the popular terrace, because it fills up fast.
Inside has a slightly more low-key vibe thanks to plenty of space to accommodate groups large and small with wooden dividers that make things more private. But, there’s still no missing the huge bar. It’s a brighter (not fluorescent) space with caged lights and lanterns swirling around the room.
Cho Gao is a restaurant and lounge, and its universal appeal of is obvious from the vast range of ages, groups (families included) and variety of dress from baseball caps and ripped jeans to sparkling dresses and heels. All are welcome and all seem to be enjoying themselves.
Fridays aren’t strictly reserved to evening brunch: the à la carte menu is still available. If it’s brunch you’re after, you definitely won’t be missing out on any of the big hitters. Plus, food and drinks are both unlimited. And if you’re repeating plates early on, the chances of finishing are very unlikely. Last call for drinks is 10.30pm.
Brunch begins with salads and a sushi platter, including warm signature rolls, followed by hot plates including baskets of dim sum and satay platters, then a hefty main section that pretty much guarantees to leave you bursting. If you’re concerned with maximising space, skip desserts, which don’t quite hit the mark.
Staff are resolutely friendly and unfazed no matter how busy it gets, but the pace of food can sometimes be impacted when the house is full. However, when food does come it is hot and fresh.
If you’re looking to unwind at a chill spot with a great value brunch, Chao Gao’s night brunch is a steady choice for starting your weekend.
Dhs189 (soft drinks), Dhs289 (house beverages), Fri 7pm-11pm.
