A meal at Meydan

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A meal at Meydan

What do you get when you open up a restaurant beside the tracks for the most prestigious horse race in town? A brunch with a view

By Keith Pereña

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Published: Thu 23 Jan 2020, 11:00 PM

Last updated: Fri 24 Jan 2020, 1:00 AM

The Meydan Vista Brunch offers what it says on the tin - have brunch overlooking the grounds for the most prestigious horse race in the world. It's the same ground where His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of UAE, and Ruler of Dubai, and his Godolphin team face off with other stables from for prestige and glory. But the track sure is different without the fancy-looking hats and paddock devoid of anyone. You, instead, get an uninterrupted view of the track as you munch on some treats from the international buffet at Farriers Restaurant.
It's no lazy brunch but rather an all-inclusive family affair. Kids have their own buffet arrangement (with it quirky, low-to-the-ground arrangement), while the adults are free to roam around the multiple sections - there's the grill where you get steaks and fish, Indian food, Arabic grill and, of course, the gold seafood and antipasto. There's also a juice car and sushi bar for the more health-oriented.

Another less-discussed wonder of this brunch is the walking involved to get from one section to another. Now hear me out here. There are some things that could be improved in terms of space but I found the walks to be enjoyable. It lets you soak in the views and get that much-needed breather between dishes. And you'll need a breather because these offerings are more on the heavier side. All in all, it's a classic family brunch, what's not to like?  
keith@khaleejtimes.com
Taste
It's a classic buffet with interesting outliers and Arabic twists. The Arab cues remind the diner of where he is - a hotel whose purpose is to showcase the UAE's legacy in horse racing. Don't let the steak fool you - it may look dry, but it's a juicy piece of meat plucked straight off the grill. The salmon is a favourite - couple it with the lemon butter sauce.
Ambience
Grape in hand, it's easy to feel like you're visiting for a day at the races. The track is a beauty and, in its silence, it's easy to imagine how it would be when the race season begins. The place is well lit. What really won me over was the quirky arrangement for the kid's buffet. It's a set height!
Service
Our server was always close by to pick up the dishes and assist us. However, a casual chat would have been nice. This is somehow offset by the radiant smiles they wear when they approach. The chefs are also communicative and actually ask how you want your steak done.
Presentation
The food is 'presented' whichever way you would put it in your plate. However, the buffet arrangement exudes a grandiose vibe. Want to just grab cracker and spread some cheese while standing there? Go, do that. Gives the feeling that you can 'sneak a bite' while no one is looking.
Value for money
There are a bunch of packages with varying price points. The cheapest starts at Dh290 with soda included, Dh290 with house beverages, Dh450 for sparkling and Dh625 with bubbles. So, whether you feel like being all fancy-like or not there's a brunch package for you and that's a very good thing.
Rating: 4/5
Meydan Vista Brunch, Meydan, Dubai Reservations:  04 381 3111


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