The location
A few steps from the entrance of Le Méridien, an old favourite on the Dubai nightlife scene, Yalumba is split between indoors, where its extensive buffet is located, and an outdoor terrace, which features barbecue dishes and a smoking area. You will likely make a few new friends if the mood takes you in the predominantly western crowd, not least as the tables are relatively close together.
The atmosphere
If you’re ever charged with taking visitors to an archetypal Dubai brunch with all the trimmings, there aren’t many better examples than this one. The tiaras, garlands, hats and horns on the tables, added to the white seat coverings and semi-retro soundtrack, give the vibe of a post-wedding party in full swing, and everybody around us seemed to be getting suitably stuck in. If you’re in search of a quiet bite and conversation on a Friday afternoon, you have comprehensively come to the wrong place.
The food
The buffet and barbecue major on seafood, sushi, freshly sizzled meat and opulent desserts. The real star performer, however, is an a la carte menu of starters, mains and desserts, included in the price. The best dish we sampled was the buttered poached lobster, presented with a pair of potato croquettes, plus asparagus, and sweetcorn sauce.
Who’s it best for?
Party people and couples – families with young children will probably find the atmosphere a bit raucous, especially come about 3pm, when diners have been known to start dancing between tables. But the good news for those with sprogs to worry about, is that Yalumba is about to launch a Saturday Family Brunch, where children under the age of 12 eat for free.
The verdict
Fun and full of beans, Yalumba’s Brunch and Garden Party is unpretentious and inclusive, with the option to escape into the open air if things get too energetic inside.
The National was a guest of the restaurant.
• Fridays noon to 3.30pm. Dh499. Yalumba, Le Méridien Dubai Hotel & Conference Centre, Dubai. For reservations, call 04 702 2328.
aworkman@thenational.ae
