If you are seeking one of Dubai’s best brunches, however, then you should definitely read on.
From the golden horse statues ‘prancing’ on the grass beside the drive up to the front of the hotel, to the magnificent lobby of marble and water features, this is the favourite ‘special occasion’ haunt of many Dubai residents, for good reason.
But brunch can be the true test of many kitchens; the day when a full house descends and every chef is called to pull out all the stops.
The award-winning brunch at Al Qasr is huge. And very much in demand. Virtually every table inside and out appeared to be taken on our visit, even with the summer beginning to make shade a priority, as chefs from the hotel’s restaurants showcased their best, from beautiful Thai dishes to tender beef sirloin, vibrant sushi and impressive prawns to Wagyu burgers – and an endless selection of bitesize gems in shot glasses and on ceramic scoops.
Although situated in, around and powered by Spanish outlet Al Hambra, meaty MJ’s Steakhouse and the international cuisine of Arboretum, Al Qasr’s brunch is superior for its sheer array of food stations – live or simply well stocked - a beguiling selection of choice that is a pleasure to discover. Like any good buffet, however, it requires a plan; a mission to prioritize the must have dishes and the ones that might not make it into a swelling belly.
The seafood selection and cooked meats demand attention, but the aesthetics of all the displays almost always follows through on taste. Then, if you have been a prior patron of the Al Qasr’s regular F&B offerings you’ll know the brunch is likely to deliver some tough choices to go with the quality level.
That includes dessert, often a struggle after all that savoury temptation; but sometimes you have to push yourself the extra pile.
Then again, you can always head back for another Friday, be it a special occasion - or simply because it is the weekend.
Sometimes indulgence doesn’t demand a reason.
DETAILS:
Jumeirah Al Qasr brunch happens from 12.30-4pm
It costs from AED250 (child aged four-12) to AED695 per person for the Moet option. Kids aged up to four eat gratis.
Adult brunch (without alcohol) costs AED495 or AED575 (with alcohol and soft drinks).
www.jumeirah.com/en/hotels-resorts/dubai/madinat-jumeirah/activities/the-friday-brunch-at-al-qasr/