Dubai isn’t Dubai without brunch – a seemingly antiquated weekend British tradition has been transformed into a social given in Dubai and no trip if falling over the Middle Eastern weekend is complete without it. We were invited to try the Friday Fork and Cork Brunch at Crescendo – Anantara, The Palm Dubai.
The Anantara is on the outer right ‘wing’ of the palm and is Polynesian in theme – it’s the one with the divine looking Polynesian huts that you’ll have seen on social media. Anantara’s Fork and Cork Brunch takes place in the Crescendo restaurant which is at the heart of the resort. The brunch itself has a real family vibe but there were also plenty of adult only groups like ourselves – proving its popularity with everyone.
The Fork and Cork Brunch at Anantara, The Palm Dubai has a reputation proceeding itself as being one of the best on the palm, but even that couldn’t prepare me for the amazing food. The seafood including oysters (yes you read right) and sushi was perfect with both me and my sister indulging in a few too many plates from there. The variety of food was breathtaking – from traditional English dishes to Dim Sum there was so much choice and everything we tasted was beautifully presented and delicious. Word of warning though: pace yourself – by the time dessert came round, we were stuffed. I’m still mourning the piece of chocolate cake that I simply couldn’t finish! Service as always in Dubai was impeccable and particularly personable at the Anantara.
You’d be a fool to pretend that alcohol isn’t a big topic in Dubai, not necessarily what people are drinking but how much it’s costing. Ladies Night and Friday Brunches pay testament to the model of alcohol sale that works really well in the UAE: an all-inclusive model. The Fork and Cork Brunch offers different levels of alcohol, reflected by your colour wristband. We were assigned house alcohol beverages and were wondering if perhaps we should upgrade to the sparkling wine or bubbly option. However, take it from me that you absolutely don’t need to. The house beverage option includes wine, beer and the cocktail stations; we were spoiled for choice with espresso martinis, mojitos, Piña coladas – there was so much on offer that it’s the perfect beverage option.
Entertainment was in the form of a live band and once we got over our oh so British awkwardness they were really good.
Top tip: once brunch is finished happy hour begins almost immediately upstairs in the Lotus Bar with views of the glittering gulf – it was the perfect tranquil setting to allow all that food go down and watch an incredible sunset.
Friday Fork and Cork Brunch at Crescendo was a great introduction to Anantara, The Palm Dubai and is now firmly on the wish list to stay at next time we visit.
We were guests of the Anantara and received complimentary brunch.
