When was the last time you did a Saturday evening brunch? Last weekend I shared a ride up to the Taj Exotica with a dear friend, to meet up with the rest of the girls. Girls Night Out at Raia Restaurant & Lounge it was – a kid-free evening, and a much-deserved one I dare say. It has been a long summer with the kids….
Keep reading to see what the Saturday Brunch at Raia is like.
The Venue
It would be my first time to Raia, and the first to Taj for the rest of the troupe. Perched atop the Taj Exotica on the 6th floor, it boasts gorgeous views from its terrace at sunset. I can imagine how nice it would be in the winter season.
As we were there mid-August – indoors it would be. We did walk out to take a few photos, and could feel the makeup gently melting away. Give it a few extra minutes and our hair would poof up. Needless to say we didn’t stay very long outside.
Wooden tables, and low sofas was the main scene in the dining area. The venue is dimly lit, creating an intimate and cosy atmosphere throughout. The striking feature would be its bar, situated right in the middle of the venue. That’s where the magic happens.
The Raia Brunch Menu
Soon after, the rest of the girls arrived. Drinks served and clinking of glasses for that customery boomerang shot, our evening began…
Starters
First up – Raia’s signature mezze platter, comprising of Arabic bread and dips like hummus and baba ganoush. Alongside, cheese rolls (rakakat jibneh) – a beloved Middle Eastern appetizer, and kibbeh. This was personally a little different for me – as it would be the first time having Middle Eastern starters while sipping sparkling wine.
Soon after, came their chilled seafood platter – with fresh oysters, mussels and prawns served on a bed of ice. We all love oysters so we requested for more – and the team very kindly brought them for the table.
The Drinks
A big highlight of the brunch would definitely be the drinks selection.
If you had gone for the house package – cocktails are all included. We’re talking Olive and Fig Espresso Martini, Limoncello Spritz, Raia Gold fashioned and Orange Blossom Margaritas. This is all prepped by the bar so you can head up and watch them put it together. Absolutely delicious cocktails and dare I say – with a decent amount of liquor, so please pace yourself…….
See Raia Saturday Brunch Beverage Menu
Mains & Desserts
You get to choose a main each, and they do have three options – meat, seafood or vegetarian. I was happy with my plate – steak – cooked to your liking, lamb chops and tender chicken cutlets. This came beautifully presented – with greens on the side.
Desserts came later around 10pm or so – mango and sago pudding, with an assortment of cakes. We were all absolutely stuffed by then.
Keep up to date! Join the Dubai Family Leisure Guide Broadcast Whatsapp Group!
The Vibe
They did have DJ on the decks, and a live duo on stage for most of the evening. We were too busy catching up so didn’t end up on the dance floor. It was great that the party vibe was there – yet the music wasn’t too loud so you can actually have a proper conversation throughout the evening. Next time we’ll definitely bring our dancing shoes!
FYI – when the good season kicks in – so will the roaming entertainers (below)!
Overall Thoughts
For catching up with friends – we did think that the Saturday Brunch at Raia was a perfect spot to be. Food and drinks all served to table, plus the cocktails were a big hit. We loved that the party vibe was there, yet we could still have a decent conversation. The brunch is strictly 21+ – so if you’re looking for kid-free brunch to do on a Saturday evening, give it a try. It’s very well-priced if you book on their website – at 399 AED for 2, for their house package, and 449 AED for 2, for their bubbly package. Just take it easy with the cocktails…….
- Saturday Brunch at Raia Restaurant & Lounge
- Every Saturday, 7pm to 11pm
- Taj Exotica Resort & Spa the Palm
- Price :
Filed under : Adults-Only Brunches in Dubai
Disclosure : I was a guest of Taj Exotica to review the Saturday Brunch. Friends paid for themselves, availing to the 50% discount by booking online.
One thought on “Saturday Brunch at Raia Dubai : An Adults-only Evening at Taj Exotica”