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What's On
4 days ago
- Entertainment
- What's On
11 iconic brunches in Dubai worth the hype
Brunches in Dubai are a weekend ritual and nowhere does it quite like this city. Whether you're looking for a high-energy party with DJs and dancing, a refined culinary journey with five-star flair, or a relaxed afternoon with scenic views and top-tier bites, Dubai's brunch scene has something for every palate and mood. From beachfront fiestas and Peruvian powerhouses to jungle-themed escapes and sophisticated rooftop affairs, these 11 iconic brunches capture the very best of what Dubai has to offer. Hungry yet? Let's dig in… Swipe through the gallery 3 of 12 Opa Dubai A Greek island escape, right in the city. If you've ever wanted to brunch like a Greek god or goddess complete with traditional dances, signature beverages, and some very satisfying plate-smashing, Opa Dubai is the one. Held just once a month, this lively experience is set in a bougain villaea-draped, white-and-blue space inside Fairmont Dubai that transports you straight to the islands. Expect fantastic live entertainment, a warm Mediterranean vibe, and an afternoon that's equal parts festive and fabulous. Location: Fairmont Dubai, Sheikh Zayed Road Date: Next event is on Friday, 23 August Timings: 12pm to 4pm Packages: From Dhs355 Contact: 04 357 0557 @opadubai Candypants at Akira Back Where high energy meets haute cuisine. A staple brunches in Dubai scene, Candypants at Akira Back delivers a Saturday like no other. Perched in W Dubai The Palm, this party brunch blends inventive Japanese cuisine with Korean flair and global influences. Expect panoramic views of Palm Jumeirah, bold cocktails, and that signature Candypants buzz, loud, unapologetic, and seriously fun. It's a full-sensory brunch that balances top-tier dining with an electric party atmosphere. Location: Akira Back, W Dubai, The Palm Times: Saturdays, 1pm to 4:30pm Packages: From Dhs425 Contact: 04 245 5533 @candypantsdxb Bubbalicious at The Westin The classic that never misses. Whether you're new to Dubai or a brunching pro, Bubbalicious at The Westin is a rite of passage. Held at the stunning beachfront resort, this iconic brunch sees three restaurants join forces to serve up a feast of global flavours, live cooking stations, flowing drinks, and nonstop entertainment. It's high-energy yet family-friendly, luxurious yet approachable, a brunch that delivers every time and remains one of the city's most beloved weekend staples. Location: The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina Times: Saturdays, 1pm to 4pm Packages: Packages from Dhs475 and kids aged 6 to 12 Dhs300 Contact: 04 511 7373 @westindubai Hutong A regal chinese brunch experience. Step into the world of Qing dynasty decadence at Hutong's Imperial Brunch in DIFC. Inspired by the legendary Manchu-Han Imperial Feast, this refined brunch begins with an unlimited spread of starters and handcrafted dim sum, followed by a specially curated main course of your choice. End on a sweet note with an elegantly plated sharing dessert. With its sophisticated ambiance and elevated flavours, this is a brunch that's truly fit for royalty. Location: DIFC, Dubai Times: Saturdays, 12:30pm to 3:30pm Packages: From Dhs288 Contact: 04 220 0868 @hutongdubai Naughty Noodles at Maiden Shanghai Dubai's most outrageous arty brunch. FIVE Palm Jumeirah's Naughty Noodles Brunch at Maiden Shanghai is more than just a meal, it's a full-throttle experience. Known globally for its wild energy and award-winning flair, this brunch pairs gourmet Chinese dishes with non-stop entertainment, from live performers to pumping DJ sets. The excitement doesn't stop, because at 4:30, guests head straight to the rooftop for the afterparty, with skyline views and vibes that last till sunset. Bold, loud, and unapologetically fun, this is brunch, FIVE style. Location: Maiden Shanghai, FIVE Palm Jumeirah Timings: Saturdays: Brunch: 1pm to 4:30pm and afterparty: 4:30pm to 7pm Contact: @naughtynoodles_brunch Viva Brasilia at Mama Zonia Carnival vibes with a Peruvian twist. Turn up the energy at Mama Zonia's Viva Brasilia Brunch, a multi-award-winning party that fuses the rhythm of Rio with the flavours of Peru. Brought to life by Secret Parties, this high-octane brunch offers vibrant live samba performances, curated beats, and immersive entertainment, all within the lush, jungle-themed interiors of Pier 7. With a summer offer that extends the fun until 5:30pm, it's the perfect excuse to keep the drinks flowing and the vibes high. Location: Mama Zonia, Pier 7, Dubai Marina Timings: Saturdays, 1pm to 5:30pm (extended summer hours) Contact: 04 240 4747 @mamazoniadubai Al Qasr A refined feast with iconic flair. A true Dubai institution, the Al Qasr brunch at Madinat Jumeirah is back. This elegant affair caters to both discerning foodies and families alike, with live cooking stations dishing out global favourites in style. From a luxe seafood spread and artisanal cheese selection to indulgent mains like beef Wellington, truffle mac and cheese, dim sum, and more, it's a brunch that celebrates variety and quality. Add in premium drinks, live music, and an optional after-party, and you've got one of the city's most polished weekend experiences. Location: Jumeirah Al Qasr, Madinat Jumeirah Times: Saturdays, 1pm to 4pm (after-party to follow) Contact: 800 323 232 @alqasrbrunch City Social Elevated dining with a side of skyline views. For a brunch that puts exceptional food front and centre, City Social by Jason Atherton delivers a masterclass in refined simplicity. Set high in Grosvenor House Dubai, this elegant Saturday spot offers perfectly executed classics like beef tartare, smoked burrata, grilled prawns, and confit lamb shoulder. Ideal for group gatherings, the bubbly package comes complimentary for parties of six or more, just one more reason to make it a social affair in every sense of the word. Location: City Social, Grosvenor House Dubai Times: Saturdays, 12:30pm to 4pm Packages: From Dhs395 Contact: 04 402 2222 @citysocial_dubai COYA A Peruvian powerhouse with party energy. COYA's Saturday brunch is where vibrant Peruvian flavours meet sophisticated party vibes. Held at the stylish Four Seasons Resort, this long-standing favourite brings the energy with upbeat music, flowing premium drinks, and an endless parade of signature dishes like ceviche, anticuchos, hearty clay pot mains, and those irresistible churros. It's lively yet refined, bold yet elegant. And with over eight years at the top of Dubai's dining game, it's no wonder this grown-up fiesta remains a brunch icon. Location: COYA, Four Seasons Resort Dubai at Jumeirah Beach Times Saturdays, afternoon Contact: 04 316 9600 @coyadubai Barfly by Buddha-Bar A sunset brunch with serious style. Swap daytime dining for something a little more seductive with Barfly by Buddha-Bar's Saturday evening brunch. Set against sweeping views of The Palm, this sleek, candlelit experience offers pan-Asian favourites like short rib bao buns, paired with premium drinks and sultry live entertainment. With its glamorous setting and after-dark energy, Barfly is perfect for those who like their brunch with a side of nightlife. Location: Hilton Dubai Palm Jumeirah, Palm Jumeirah Times: Saturdays, 7pm to 11pm Packages: From Dhs365 Contact: 04 230 0000 @barflydubai Amazónico A jungle brunch with rhythm and flair. Tropical vibes, Latin flavours, and non-stop rhythm, Amazónico's Saturday brunch in DIFC is an immersive escape into the heart of the jungle. Set across three lushly designed floors, this brunch pairs premium Latin American dishes with vibrant live performances from a percussionist and trumpeter, all soundtracked by a DJ spinning Latin-infused beats from 2pm. Expect sushi starters, caramelised pineapple, baby chicken, and bold cocktails in a brunch that's as much about the music as it is the meal. Location: Amazónico, DIFC Timings: Saturdays, 12pm to 4pm Packages: From Dhs595 Contact: 04 571 3999 @amazonico_dubai Looking for more brunches in Dubai? We've rounded up 105 brunches across the city Images: Instagram, Secret Party and Websites
Perth Now
6 days ago
- Business
- Perth Now
Industry event raises over $15,000 for vulnerable teens
WA's shipping and logistics community turned out in force on Saturday night for the sixth annual WA International Trade Ball, a sold-out event that raises funds for vulnerable teens dealing with mental health issues. The gala at The Westin Perth drew in more than 300 attendees, from freight forwarders and custom brokers to maritime professionals from across the State. The night raised more than $15,000 for Ruah's Luminos Project, a Northbridge-based residential centre that provides early intervention and support for young people experiencing thoughts of suicide. According to Ruah, the Luminous Project provides peaceful recovery spaces for young people without needing a mental health diagnosis and with referrals being able to be made by anyone. '(The Luminos Project) is supported by trained staff including a clinical psychologist, youth suicide counsellors, peer support workers with lived experience, and support counsellors. It focuses on helping young people build hope, resilience, and practical strategies for their future,' their site says. Spearheaded by shipping industry leaders Sherie Le Brun of Direct Couriers, Emma Cribbin of Navia Freight, and John Park of Freight & Trade Alliance, the event has cemented its place on the WA shipping calendar not just for the glitz and the glam but for its commitment to giving back to the community. Ms Le Brun, who was also the co-organiser of the event, said the community had been awesome. 'It's even more incredible when we work hard to make it a great night and have so many people champion the event year after year,' she said. Mr Park said the shipping industry was proud to be able to support local charities such as Ruah. The funds were raised through raffles, auctions, and donations as guests enjoyed live entertainment and fine dining.
New Indian Express
12-07-2025
- Entertainment
- New Indian Express
Sri Lankan Odyssey at Westin
If you're someone who enjoys exploring bold flavours and unique cuisines, the Sri Lankan Food Festival at The Westin, Mindspace was the one. Curated by Chef Chaminda De Silva from Sri Lanka, this food festival brings the island's vibrant culinary traditions right to Hyderabad, offering everything from flavourful curries to delightful coconut-based desserts. We started our meal with a comforting bowl of Vegetable Soup — simple, warm, and just the right way to begin the experience. The starters were a burst of flavour. On the vegetarian side, we tried the Ladyfinger with Cashew & Peanut, which was crunchy and mildly spiced, and the Devilled Kadara (spiced chickpeas) that had a lovely kick to it. Non-vegetarian options like the Fish Cutlet and Halmasso Baduma (tiny fried fish) were packed with bold spices and tasted just like something you'd expect from a coastal home kitchen. The main course continued to impress. Vegetarian dishes such as Potato Mustard Curry, Beetroot Dry Curry, Ladyfinger Pahi, and Tempered Dal had a comforting, home-style feel, yet each carried its own distinct flavour profile. The use of coconut, mustard, and local spices was subtle but made all the difference.
Hindustan Times
07-07-2025
- Health
- Hindustan Times
From ginger and rose to mint and citrus fruits, try mocktails made with these immunity-boosting ingredients this monsoon
Viral infections spread rapidly during the monsoon. Hence, it's crucial to focus on building a strong immune system to protect yourself. So whether it's a regular day or a party with friends, you can ensure that even your mocktails get a healthy twist. 'My go-to option during this time of the year is the Monsoon Shield, a zesty, tropical immunity booster in a glass comprising ginger, basil, fresh orange juice, lime juice and passion fruit. While fresh orange juice gives the vitamin C punch, basil ensures calm and clarity, ginger gives the warmth and lime juice adds that immune kick,' says Ravi Patel, executive bartender, The Westin Mumbai Garden City, Mumbai. Rose and Chia Seed Cooler, Citrus Splash Elixir and Shahi Sharbat Home ingredients to the rescue 'Add a dash of fresh ginger juice to your citrus-based mocktails. Its natural anti-inflammatory properties make it a powerful immunity booster. Ginger helps combat common cold and throat irritations during monsoon. It blends beautifully with lemon, orange, and even mint-based drinks. Tulsi, on the other hand, is a Nature's shield. Drop in a few muddled tulsi leaves or infuse them into the base of your mocktail. The herb is packed with antioxidants and antimicrobial benefits. It also adds a fresh, herbaceous twist to any drink. Pair it with pomegranate or apple juice for a brilliant blend. Also, mint is known for being a cooling, calming and cleansing ingredient. Fresh mint leaves aid digestion and ward off bacterial infections. It's a great detoxifier and pairs wonderfully with cucumber, lemon, or watermelon,' says Chandan Roy, F&B Manager, Courtyard by Marriott, Ranchi. Manish Chauhan, Head Beverages, Mamma Killa Delhi, on the other hand, swears by the Nikkei Fizz: 'I use galangal that has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, lemongrass as it aids digestion, boosts immunity and regulates cholesterol and ginger that boosts immunity and provides relief from cold and cough. The base is a citrus-forward, floral blend with a tropical twist of apple and mango sorbet.' Kuch khatta ho jaaye Citrus fruits are excellent for boosting the immune system due to their high vitamin C content, which is a powerful antioxidant that supports immune cell function and helps fight off infections. 'Our Citrus Splash Elixir is an immunity-boosting mocktail ideal for the monsoon. It blends fresh orange and lemon, both rich in vitamin C, known to strengthen immunity and support collagen production. A touch of honey or jaggery syrup adds natural sweetness while offering antimicrobial and soothing benefits, long-valued in traditional remedies. A pinch of turmeric brings powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Finished with sparkling water and fresh mint, this vibrant elixir is designed to support wellness during rainy days,' Rajib Maity, restaurant manager, Grand Mercure Bengaluru at Gopalan Mall, Bengaluru. Besides ginger, tulsi and turmeric, you could also include ingredients such as amla, a potent source of vitamin C, excellent for enhancing resistance to colds and mint, which aids in detoxification. 'Two go-to drinks for me during monsoon are Golden Rain Tonic — a chilled brew of turmeric-ginger tea, amla juice, tulsi essence, and a dash of honey, finished with soda and mint ice spheres and the Basil Breeze Spritzer, which features crushed tulsi, lemongrass, and lemon zest shaken with tonic and topped with roasted cumin,' says Chef Bidyut Saha, executive chef, Taj Corbett Resort & Spa, Uttarakhand. The rose way! If you want to turn a simple drink into a monsoon ritual, try the Shahi Sharbat. 'It draws inspiration from classic Indian sharbats, starting with rose nectar for its calming, cooling qualities, an ingredient long used in Ayurvedic remedies to soothe the body and uplift the mood. Add a splash of fresh citrus juice for immunity-boosting vitamin C, helpful during the monsoon. A pinch of cardamom powder adds warmth, while also aiding digestion and respiratory health. Finish it with sparkling water,' says Hiramon Paul, bar manager, Sheraton Grand Pune Bund Garden Hotel, Pune. You could also try the Rose and Chia Seed Cooler. While rose is high in vitamin C and helps fight oxidative stress, chia seeds are packed with omega-3, fibre, and antioxidants that support immunity and gut health. 'Blend rose petals with water to create a concoction. Strain and discard solids. Mix 30 ml of the rose petal concoction with 100 ml water. Add fresh lemon juice, honey/jaggery syrup, and chia seeds. Stir and let it sit for five minutes to allow chia seeds to gel. Stir and serve chilled,' says Chef Rohit Dubey, Executive Chef, Pilibhit House, Haridwar - IHCL SeleQtions. If you like amla and thought it's best consumed as a pickle, give the Amla & Mint Cooler a try. "Amla juice blended with mint, honey, cumin powder, and chilled soda make a refreshing cooler. Amla is a rich source of vitamin C, which enhances white blood cell function. Its tartness balances beautifully with mint, making this a rejuvenating monsoon cooler,' says Sourav Pal Chowdhury, assistant director of F&B, Sheraton Hyderabad Hotel, Hyderabad.
Metro
06-07-2025
- Metro
Going to the Maldives with children isn't 'brave', it's brilliant
'You're taking the kids to the Maldives? That's brave,' a fellow parent said at the school gates. I can't say I was all that surprised hearing those words from multiple people in the run-up to our once-in-a-lifetime holiday. I'd had the same thought, many times – it's a couple's destination. Then there was the fear of the 11-hour journey – my 11-year-old daughter and four-year-old son's first long-haul flight. As a precaution, we armed ourselves with as many tools as possible– think pool sinkables, Lonely Planet's kids drawing games on the go, and sticker-filled activity books. In the worry, I'd lost sight of the fact my children have an incredible sleeping superpower, and the only one unable to get any shuteye on the flight was yours truly. The next fear I had was the Maldives itself. It's for honeymoons, not families, right? I could just imagine my football-mad daughter kicking a football on the beach and it crash, bang, walloping onto a lobster-for-two, splattering a loved-up couple in garlic butter and sending their expensive bubbles onto the sand. Fuel your wanderlust with our curated newsletter of travel deals, guides and inspiration. Sign up here. Alas, each of the three resorts we stayed at (we chose to island-hop so that if we did cause a fracas, the embarrassment was finite) was incredibly welcoming to our children. So much so, that my four-year-old was declared (or declared himself) chief buggy driver of the northern atolls. He loved all the kids' clubs, but driving the carts that ferried us around the islands is now his goal in life. We stayed at The Westin (mine and my husband's favourite), then Le Meridien (my daughter's favourite) and The Sheraton (my son's favourite). When I travel, I love to taste food from around the world. Call me a cliché. Sadly, my children, like many others, haven't yet developed the joy of culinary experimentation. One evening as we sat drinking crisp white wine with a family from northern India who we had befriended thanks to our children playing together, I relayed this thought to a mother. I asked what her kids enjoyed, hoping that she would tell me they were accustomed to spices and flavours I can only dream of my own enjoying. Her response disappointed me: 'We can't go anywhere that doesn't serve pizza, pasta, or chicken nuggets.' Clearly our youngsters' penchant for Italian cuisine and bread-crumbed poultry is an international issue – one that our resorts all understood and catered for. Okay, so we let them have chips more than we normally would at home, but we've got to have a break from our own voices. We are on holiday, after all. For us adults, across the board the food was excellent. We experienced everything from breakfast and burgers to fine dining and local cuisine. We also had a 'floating breakfast' in our pool at Le Meridien. Or rather, we tried to. I'm sure it's good for Instagram, but chopping my sausages on a moving platform and trying not to get my toast soggy wasn't ideal. On two islands, we stayed in beach villas, but at the Westin, we were in an overwater villa; I felt like this was a Maldives non-negotiable, like the pool breakfast or catching a sea plane, crewed by the barefoot pilots of Trans Maldivian Airways. We told our four-year-old that he could only go on our porch if he was wearing a life jacket – there were no barriers and he could easily have fallen in. In the end, that wasn't necessary, because upon his first dip in the water, he didn't like the taste and became convinced he saw a sea snake while snorkelling. It was refraction of the ladder as it entered the water. Our children were most excited about the sunset dolphin tours. Wanting to mimic the spinner dolphins jumping and flipping, my son is now helping me build my upper-body strength with his constant requests to throw him in a similar manner whenever we go swimming. My husband and I were most excited about the kids' clubs. Of course, we spent a lot of time with our children, but it was nice being able to spend a bit of time together, going for massages and enjoying a beachside glass of wine or two without having to be on lifeguard duty because your four-year-old refuses to put his armbands on. Our children both enjoyed the kids' clubs too, but I think perhaps, being 11, it will be the last time we can get away with it for our daughter. They came back with tattoos (temporary), a shell-based picture frame, and new friendships. In fact, our son loved Le Meridien so much that he wanted to stay there rather than coming snorkelling with the rest of us. Island hopping with two children and a daddy who is not the most confident of flyers (the landing always gets me), the thought of a sea plane was rather daunting. I paid particular attention to where the emergency exits were on the Trans Maldivian Airways fleet. Even as we hovered over the seascape of blues and greens, my mind was racing to the 'what ifs' of rogue waves, wrong angles and the best way to make sure my children escaped first. More Trending In the end, the landings were incredibly smooth and my worries, thankfully, were for nothing. I agree with my son though – the speed boat to and from the Sheraton was the most fun of all the transfers. Next time someone tells me taking my kids to the Maldives is brave, I'll just smile. It's not brave, it's brilliant. You might still worry about rogue footballs and choppy landings, but the joy on their faces – and the occasional child-free massage – makes every single chicken nugget worth it. Room L (11-year-old): Westin – because when I woke up, I saw fish E (four-year-old): Sheraton – because we were all in the same room Transport L: Speed boat – it was fun because it was super bumpy E: Sea plane and speed boat Food L: Raspberry ice cream at the Westin. And the choice at the different buffets E: Pancakes with Mickey Mouse chocolate face Kids Club L: Pool party at the Sheraton E: Le Meridien – he still misses the staff Swimming Pool L: Le Meridien – because there were lots of other children to play with E: Le Meridien or The Sheraton – because he could touch the bottom Favourite activity L: I enjoyed the snorkelling because we got to see the fish pooing – I saw six. E: Speedboats. And buggies. And Kids club Favourite memory L: I loved seeing the sharks out on the reef every night E: Speed boat Must haves: High SPF sunscreen. At least factor 50 (take lots, it's expensive out there) Rash guards/swimming shirts Water shoes (there's a lot of coral) Underwater camera No screens – we may have led our children to believe that the Maldives doesn't have very good internet Rooms at Le Meridien start at around £200 per night for a beach villa for two people. At the Sheraton, rooms start at around £180 per night for a deluxe room; at the Westin, from £230 per night for a beach villa. MORE: I veered inland in Vietnam and saw a side few tourists see MORE: I tried a 'hybrid holiday' and discovered the secret to work-life balance MORE: I hate the beach, but a £13 trip to one of the UK's 'worst seaside towns' changed my mind
