The location
It might be hard for New Dubaians to grasp just how symbolic the Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club remains. Opened in 1993 – six years before the Burj Al Arab – the arching sails of the clubhouse still rank among the emirate’s most iconic architectural achievements. Unlike popular nightspots QD’s and Boardwalk at the neighbouring yacht club, fine-dining restaurant Legends is stationed in the photogenic clubhouse itself, situated in the cavernous curve of one sail-shaped wing. Perhaps most appealing however is the wide terrace, which offers a peerless vista over the creek and back towards Bur Dubai. Far too hot during our August visit, but a clear USP come autumn.
The atmosphere
In a city where lounge dining and outlandish ostentation are standard form, there’s a refreshingly classic restraint displayed at Legends. White tablecloths, waistcoats and comfy armchairs combine to conjure a sense of classic steakhouse style. A heavy sense of brown and beige lines the furniture, while retro light fittings punctuate the air, and live flames smoulder in the corner. Staff were fantastically friendly and efficient, and this definitely felt the spot for a sophisticated chinwag over a party. Keep that hair tied safely up, thanks.
The food
Legends offers a mid-sized international buffet, plus a new selection of taster-sized a la carte mains that can be ordered infinitely to your table.
For starters, the standouts were a huge array of small canapé-style dishes. Among our favourites were the salmon blini (fresh fish on a mini-pancake), seafood arancini (a fried rice ball mixed with various fish), and a chewy duck wrap. The Arabic mezze also comes recommended, and there was a decent sushi spread and a large seafood selection. We absolutely loved that salads come served in a hamster ball, so you can mix and shake the dressing in according to your preference.
At the main course buffet you will find plenty of familiar favourites on offer – curries, chilli con carne, vegetarian pasta, grilled fish, etc
There’s also the obligatory roast carvery, but more appealing were the succulent Arabic meatballs.
However the inevitable standouts were the freshly ordered a la carte options. The sea bass was tender and tasty, and the beetroot risotto simply delicious. The tenderloin didn’t disappoint.
The dessert selection scores high marks for presentation. The cheese board was perhaps a little underwhelming with just four options, but the live fresh crêpe station helped dull the pain.
Who’s it best for?
We chose to visit for the Friday evening package, which perhaps lent a slightly more refined vibe to the proceedings. Busy but not packed, there was a mix of large, mature groups enjoying a weekend outing. This brunch is definitely one which makes efforts to appeal to a more discerning clientele, and would be ideal for entertaining visiting relatives. Having said that, there’s a happy hour and DJ directly after the daytime package, ideal for those who wish to linger longer.
The verdict
An overlooked gem on the old side of town, it’s the presence of a Friday evening package which truly makes this brunch stand out.
The National was a guest of the venue.
• Fridays noon-3.30pm or 7pm-10.30pm. From Dh250 (Dh85 for children aged 7-12). Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club, reservations 04 295 6000 or creekdining@dubaigolf.com.
