Brunch is a Dubai institution – Friday afternoons are widely enjoyed by residents at a lazy brunch and there has been some stiff competition on the Dubai dining scene for diners’ attentions…and it’s gotten even more competitive after a host of outlets have upped their offerings. 

So we did the hard yards, and checked the new brunches out for you – here’s what you can expect at some of the city’s coolest new brunches. 

1. Axe House, JLT

Axe House filled the shoes of Cocktail Kitchen with a grungy, graffitied twist, and has become a trendy favourite in recent months. 

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And it’s continued the fun with its Friday brunch. The brunch food is a sharing concept, with plenty of delicious bites. 

It’s a lively atmosphere, albeit a little smoky, but it’s PLENTY of fun, the food is quality and the drinks are bottomless. 

Best for: boozy celebrations 

Price: AED250 with soft drinks, AED350 with house drinks. 

See axehouse.com

2. Soho Garden, Meydan

Located in what may seem to be one of the most aesthetic outlets in the city, Soho Garden’s sunset brunch has proven to be one of the most laid-back brunches that you will enjoy without a doubt. 

With an incredible set menu to pick and choose some of your favourite gourmet meals whilst enjoying their lush seating, it’s probably one of the best places to spend some time with your significant other on a late Friday afternoon. 

Fridays, 4-8pm.

Best for: People who love a sleep-in 

Price: AED450 per person

See sohogardendxb.com

3. Scape, Burj Al Arab

Grandeur doesn’t get more extra than that of the Burj Al Arab, and the brunch at Scape follows suit.

 It’s like a mini-escape when you end up at the other site of the iconic hotel, out at sea as such. You are greeted with a very atmospheric California themed brunch, but the colourfully decorated and bespoke drinks stations, to the jazzy style uniforms of the waiters. When the food comes, you will get your phone out, this brunch has some of the most colourful and Insta ready dishes around. It tastes great too. The menu has lots of options, but it’s predominately seafood.

Best for: Wowing visitors

Price: AED495 for soft drinks and mocktails. AED695 with free-flowing signature drinks. AED796 incl Luc Belaire rose. 

Contact: jumeirah.com

4. Ruya, Grosvenor House

Located at an incredible chic lounge bar in the hotel, this restaurant not only serves a luxurious Anatolian dining experience, but also serves VIEWS of the incredible Marina from what may seem to be the perfect spot. With turkish vibes all over the place, music pumping, a staff that will keep you on their feet and food that will make your heart warm, the Grand Bazaar Brunch is ideal for those who are prepared to get the weekend started on an active note.

Runs between 4pm to 8pm.

Best for: couples and small groups that enjoy house music and a chill evening

Price: AED450 per person for a three-course meal and Prosecco

See ruyadubai.com

5. Qasr Al Sultan 

Qasr Al Sultan has just launched a beautiful new Friday family brunch with a huge selection of Middle Eastern dishes that suits every eater and every age. The ambiance is magnificent with live entertainment, Middle Eastern dancing and performers interacting with the audience. It’s also a great place for families with children as they can have an amazing time at the children’s playground and enjoy camel rides while you listen to some Arabian tunes and enjoy a drink.

Make sure to check out this cultural gem and explore the beautiful and authentic setting of the golden age of Arabian history.

Best for: Families and people who enjoy Middle Eastern food and atmosphere.

Cost per person: AED195 per person, AED100 extra for house beverages. Children under 12 are 50%, and children under six years of age are free. 

For reservations: call 800 Sultan (785826)

6. Dukes Best Dressed 

If you fancy dressing up and indulging in British delights, then the Best Dressed Brunch in Dukes Hotel is the place for you.

Not only does this brunch give you the chance to glam up and spend a very stylish Friday afternoon, it also offers a wide selection of choices, from a bakery section filled with homemade baguettes and soda breads to a mouth-watering rotisserie section where traditional British roasts are carved and served with a wide selection of sides.

Don’t forget to treat your taste buds at the cheeses section, salad bar and the amazing Candyfloss station where it’s basically candy and sweets heaven. 

Located in the heart of the Palm Jumeirah, the Best Dressed Brunch adds to the fun with a great twist! Join the brunch all done up and you can win a ‘Best Dressed’ certificate and complimentary hotel stay at DUKES Dubai!

Best for: A fancy afternoon out 

Price: AED310 per person. 

Contact: 04 455 1101

7. Il Brunch Italiano at Armani / Deli

You may already know about the Armani/Deli brunch, but they’ve just started a new concept, Lovin tried it recently and it’s a perfect fit for the famous Downtown hotel with incredible Burj Khalifa and Dubai Fountain views.

It’s a rolling brunch from 12.30pm-9pm, the package is three hours and with that comes a fantastic Italian five-star buffet offering. Choose from mountains of incredible salads or allow the talented Sardinian chefs cook up your favourite risotto and pasta combos, or carve a prime cut of beef.

The dessert station is like having your choice of a fantastic bakery, and the cheese room (cheese gets its whole room!) comes with special wine pairings. 

The key here is you can start your brunch at any hour of the day, and it’s a concept we think could really catch on. 

Every Friday from 12.30pm to 9pm

AED 450 including drinks (valid for three hours); AED310 including soft drinks 

For more information and bookings, call +971 4 888 3666, email restaurant.servations@armanihotels.com or visit www.armanihoteldubai.com

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