A Friday brunch that’s as festive as it is suitable for families is a unicorn indeed, but it can be had at Amerigos. Kids can swim and graze while the parents have a rollicking good time and enjoy fabulous Mexican fare.
So, we’ve been fans of Amerigos for some time. The popular Acapulco Brunch has been around for about five years and shows absolutely no signs of slowing down. Despite it bring far from the newest brunch in town, you do want to book well in advance if you want to enjoy this one. Whether you’re visiting in a group of friends, as a young family, or as a couple, no leaves this fun Friday feast without a smile on their face or a very full belly.
The restaurant’s outdoor deck is perfect for the cooler months though a good time can also be had indoors. The deck is decorated to look like a Mexican street market with street stalls and painted barrels. A Day of the Dead motif, Colourful sombreros along with a pair of maracas await guests on each table.
Latin beats pulse through the speakers as the crowd splits into two groups – foodies and pool-goers (the deal includes access to the pool, which is just next to the outdoor area). We’re not here to splash around, though, we’re here to eat.
Ceviche is prepared at a live station and you can choose to have it made how you like. It’s likely you’ll have to queue, but it’s a great, and clearly popular, idea. The sea bass is soft and delicate, with a sharp crunch from red onion, while cubes of mango add a freshness that keeps us intrigued with every bite.
Guacamole could do with more citrus for us and the colourful tortilla chips are too hard (maybe they’ve been sitting out too long).
Those who are worried about too many carbs and too much cheese (we know you’re out there), the parrilla (grill) should be your main port of call. Order plump prawns, tender chicken with a chilli kick, and succulent chunks of lamb.
If lamb is your thing then we highly recommend the braised leg. Shredded meat is mixed with diced potato and onion and there’s a gentle spice that runs through it that we just love.
When it comes to those carbs, go for the soft-shell tacos or quesedillas.
This is another brunch that excels at desserts, too. There isn’t a huge amount of choice, but the counter is brimming with a flavoured ice creams and yogurts, churros and apple empanadas.
The tres leches cake is our pick of the bunch but we can’t really advise leaving any behind, so why not get a big plate and try the whole lot. You might need your stretchy pants at the end of brunch, however.
Nothing at this brunch is fancy, but it is delicious and comforting Mexican food served in a fun and even family-friendly setting at a great price, which is probably what keeps the tables at this brunch full and Latin music going.
12:30 – 4pm. Park Inn by Radisson Abu Dhabi, 02 656 2222.
