24-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Time Out Dubai
Brunch review: The Citronelle Club, Tiger Brunch in Dubai
Moody lighting, a chic set-up, zingy pan-Asian cuisine and a live DJ, The Citronelle Club has cool Friday night brunch vibes to a tee (or should say roar, given tigers are the theme here).
Perched high up in the trendy SO/Uptown, floor-to-ceiling windows give way to twinkling night skyline views and there's a buzzing atmosphere thanks to a petite yet packed main dining area. The restaurant itself is sleek and chic, all upmarket furnishings and dark woods.
A live DJ keeps things upbeat and with a cool set-up, it attracts groups and couples for lively night out.
A cute intro of crisps shaken up with sweet and sour sauce and served in a takeaway-style carton is a nice touch to start. Don't miss the mixed drinks trolley, complete with a tiger print pattern embossed on the top of the welcome creation.
(Credit: The Citronelle Club)
A roaming magician is also an unexpected, grown-up addition to the evening, impressing the tables with his sleight of hand, elevating the whole experience. Service is also excellent, helpful and efficient.
Chefs working in glass-fronted kitchens in plumes of smoke and flicks of woks will catch your eye, a glimpse into what's to come.
Tuck into sticky-sweet Korean fried chicken and zingy shrimp glass noodle salad to start. King oyster mushroom carpaccio is an interesting dish, while there's also the signature The Citronelle Salad and sea bass ceviche.
For mains, rendang-marinated lamb chops are full of flavour while the fried rice and veg noodles are also tasty accompaniments. A selection of meaty skewers and tamarind sea bream complete the line-up (we said it was a lot). Fresh fruit and a dessert platter round it all off.
(Credit: The Citronelle Club)
While it's not the cheapest around, the offering is undeniably generous, with what feels like dish after dish flowing to the table. While not every plate wows, it's a decent option for a Friday wind-down.
With an all-inclusive price, this vibey, moody space is worth exploring to close off the working week. This Tiger brunch is an under-the-radar Friday night that just needs a little more roar.
Dhs280 (soft drinks), Dhs395 (house beverages), Dhs495 (premium beverages).
