The Project Brunch

Glamour and grandeur at The St. Regis Abu Dhabi

Walking through the lobby of The St. Regis Abu Dhabi, which practically drips with gold and crystals, is always a thrill. But it’s even more exciting when there’s a lavish brunch waiting on the other side.

Combining grandeur and sophistication with a welcoming demeanor, The Project Brunch is a relaxed journey through vintage-style glamour.

Rather than a token gesture, the welcome drinks are a key part of the whole experience. Set within The St. Regis Bar, a venue that oozes old-school New York elegance with dark wooden furnishings and regal armchairs, the entire length of the bar is covered with at least a dozen different colourful mixed drinks. It’s an impressive start.

The shaded terrace provides a lovely place to dine, although we can’t help but wish that there was some music or entertainment to add to the vibe. That said, this brunch is all about culinary excellence rather than partying, and the food is excellent.

Providing amazing dishes served straight to the table and a vast buffet of extensive options, we’re immediately presented with delicate zesty ceviche, served inside huge clam shells, followed by oysters. In fact, this is a great brunch for fish and shellfish lovers, with maki rolls, sashimi, prawn and crab tempura, scallops, and salt-crusted salmon.

The flame-torched seafood and mushroom gratin is unique and memorable, while the enormous Tomahawk steak, spicy Indian grills, fresh naans and barbecued meats, make up some of the many other highlights. It would be a crime not to save enough room for a go at the awe-inspiring cheese and dessert spreads. We try the pecan pie, Oreo cheesecake, caramel ice cream and too many more indulgent options, but this brunch isn’t the time to be restrained.

Be sure to stick around for the hugely entertaining St. Regis tradition of bubbly sabering. After all, any brunch that involves watching someone open a bottle of bubbly with a huge metal blade (and gives you the chance to drink it afterwards, too), is a winner in our eyes.

The St. Regis Abu Dhabi, Fri 12.30pm to 4pm. Dhs345 with soft drinks, Dhs450 with house drinks, Dhs595 bubbly. (0)2 694 4444. @stregisabudhabi