REVIEW: This old faithful on the Dubai brunch scene has a new twist

The focus is on the rather traditional British Sunday Roast

“There’s so much to choose!” squeals my excited seven-year-old, staring wide-eyed at the vast array of tempting desserts in front of her.

Cascading over several enormous displays are apple crumble tart, carrot cake, a chocolate fountain, a choice of ten different ice creams, banoffee pie, a doughnut wall, jars of jellybeans and a huge macaroon tower.

No, it’s not Willie Wonka, but rather, The Roast by Bubbalicious at The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina.

A well-known destination for food connoisseurs, families, friends, visitors, and anyone who enjoys a good time and great food, this old faithful on the Dubai Brunch scene has a new twist focusing on the traditional British Sunday Roast.

As we arrive, there is much to take in.

Mina’s Kitchen is a light and welcoming space, and we immediately spot (and smell) the most amazing food stuffs. Several live cooking stations offer many foodie favourites, all showcasing the diversity and quality of British food.

Our tummies rumbling, we are ushered to our table on the terrace and greeted with welcome drinks and live music featuring pop classics.

The children would have immediately run back to the desserts, but they spot the multicoloured balloons flying above the dedicated kids’ area and excitedly head over to watch the magician who is about to start his show.

 

THE VIBE

 

The Roast By Bubbalicious 

 

We, adults, sit and take in the view and the vibe. The sun is shining, and the tables are beautifully laid and adorned with pink flowers. This social affair seems to cater to everyone; couples dressed to impress enjoy a long slow lunch; groups chatter and celebrate with the free-flowing bubbles; families sit and enjoy together; children are entertained with games, performers, and arts & crafts activities.

But now to eat!

Inside, the atmosphere is lively but not overcrowded. You can spot those who have done this before as they carefully peruse the room, eyeing everything before choosing.

 

THE OFFERING

 

The Roast By Bubbalicious

 

Generously spread across every possible surface are appetising dishes as far as the eye can see, from seafood and cheese platters to cold cuts, roast meats, curries, noodles, and more, more, more!

But the star of the show is the roast itself. You can choose from seven mouth-watering options, including whole suckling licensed meat, roasted rib of beef, lamb, and crispy spit roast chicken, all carved to order and served with Yorkshire puddings, crispy roasties, stuffing and other trimmings. The meat is tender and juicy, the vegetables are fresh and seasonal, and the portions are generous.

But that’s not all. There is also a traditional fish ‘n’ chip shop where you can get your fix of crispy battered haddock, chips, crushed peas and tartare sauce. For those who like it hot, head to the British Balti station and sample the mild and spicy curries. 

Vegan and vegetarian options include cauliflower steak, BBQ tofu, and a delicious beetroot wellington. So no matter your diet or what your taste buds crave, you’ll find it at this Sunday feast.

Little ones can also enjoy dishes created just for them; battered British haddock, chunky chips with crushed peas and tartare sauce, Sheperd’s pieand juicy sausages with creamy potatoes and onion gravy.

As I undo another notch on my belt, I, perhaps, still have room for the vast selection of cheese, the homemade scones with jam and clotted cream, a slice of the lemon meringue pie, or even just one more macaroon…oh, go on then!

A perfect way to spend a Sunday afternoon with your loved ones. And, with the King’s Coronation next month, it’s a fitting British food experience to join in the celebrations.

 

The Roast by Bubbalicious at Mina’s Kitchen, The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina. Every Sunday, 1.00pm to 4.00pm. Price: AED 450 free-flowing English bubbly, AED 350 free-flowing house wine and spirits, AED 295 free-flowing soft beverages, AED 200 for children between six and 12 years. Complimentary for 6 years and under. For reservations, call 04 511 7373 and for more information, visit minaskitchendubai.com

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Image source The Roast by Bubbalicious

 

Derek Issacs

A Brit in the Middle East for 25 years and counting, Derek loves scouring the streets for those under-the-radar cultural gems. And when he’s not putting Yalla – Abu Dhabi magazine to bed, you’ll find him working out at the gym.