In a city where brunch is very much a ‘thing’, deciding where to eat can make or break the weekend. Offering something for everyone, Quintessentially’s hub in Dubai chooses its top picks around the city to make the most of the lauded weekend brunch.

CÉ LA VI

Dubai Downtown

Located on the 54th floor of the Sky View Hotel, CÉ LA VI offers a stylish Michelin-starred brunch. An outpost of the South-East Asian chain, expect a fashionable crowd to gather on the romantic rooftop terrace – replete with stunning views of the Burj Khalifa.

Indulge in a curated set menu of contemporary Asian cuisine by acclaimed Chef Howard Ko, featuring sumptuous dishes like tuna tartare in sesame cone, miso Nordic salmon, and shellfish boudin’ nduja beurre blanc. Following the meal, enjoy a cocktail on the pool deck, soaking in the expansive views.

Ongaku at CLAP

Rear of CLAP restaurant, Dubai International Finance Centre

Hidden within CLAP, the acclaimed Michelin guide restaurant with several global locations (and opening soon in London’s Knightsbridge), Ongaku is the ultimate speakeasy and Tokyo-inspired rooftop gem. Atop the highest roof in the Dubai International Finance Centre and accessible only through a discreet entrance, Ongaku boasts a vibrant bar scene.

Enjoy a brunch that channels authentic Tokyo vibes with fresh oysters, sushi, sashimi, and Japanese delicacies. Transition from a long, leisurely dining experience into live entertainment and dancing during the evening hours, all while soaking in the skyline views.

COYA

Four Seasons Resort Dubai at Jumeirah Beach

Nestled in the lavish Four Seasons Jumeirah Beach, COYA’s brunch celebrates exceptional Peruvian cuisine, service, and ambience. It has become an iconic Dubai destination for brunch, thanks to a precision level of detail in food quality and entertainment.

Revel in a colorful array of appetizers and signature raw dishes, indulging in anticuchos such as wagyu short rib, before choosing from a selection of signature dishes like Chilean sea bass marinated in chili and lime. The creative dessert platters are perfect for enjoying while you linger, soaking in the vibrant bar scene.

Tasca

Mandarin Oriental Jumeirah, Dubai

Escape the city’s hustle and bustle at Tasca, a Michelin-starred restaurant by José Avillez nestled on the sixth floor of the Mandarin Oriental Jumeirah. This rooftop venue offers authentic Portuguese cuisine with a modern twist. It boasts the largest selection of Portuguese wine in Dubai – make sure to ask the knowledgeable servers for a recommendation.

Savor traditional salads, grilled veal chorizo, marinated seafood and decadent desserts like pastel de nata while dining seaside under the sun. With incredible views of the Mandarin Oriental private beach between the city and the Arabian Gulf, Tasca is our go-to for a stylish and refined brunch.

Alici

Bluewaters Island

For seafood aficionados, Alici on Bluewaters Island delivers one of the city’s finest brunch experiences. Inspired by Italy’s Amalfi Coast, the restaurant has a transportive feel – think lemon and olive trees with gorgeous sea views and decor local to Southern Italy.

The elegant, whitewashed dining room hosts a refined a la carte menu, spotlighting tuna tartare and fritto misto dishes. Share plates include creamy burrata and seafood arancini, while main courses feature plenty of fresh pasta and lobster; save room for indulgent desserts and plenty of Prosecco.

Demon Duck

Bluewaters Island

Experience a Hong Kong-style brunch on Bluewater’s Island courtesy of celebrity chef Alvin Leung. Accompanied by signature cocktails – don’t miss the Daisy Duck, a refreshing drink with sake and gin – the Chinese menu spotlights an irresistible whole slow-roasted duck with exceptionally crispy skin, steamed calamansi buns and homemade hoisin sauce.

The entertainment features a requisite DJ set and magician and caricature shows to ensure diners never get bored. Linger in the refined dining room, saving room for the chocolate cake with matcha powder. This surprisingly light dessert is the perfect finish to a thoroughly unique and enjoyable meal.

This story was first published by Quintessentially and is republished with kind permission. For more information, please go to Quintessentially.com