The Saturday Grazing brunch is done just right

Dining at Graze Gastro Grill & Bar, Dubai

The Saturday Grazing brunch can be summarised by the expression on my face as it lit up at the taste of the White Chocolate and Berries dessert - I wanted more. The only thing that stopped me from doing so was the fullness I felt having gone through a bunch of appetisers and a massive hunk of steak. That's not regret you're sensing, it's the yearning for a second time.

Unlike most brunch scenes, where it's crowded and noisy with the clatter of silverware and kids running about, Graze Gastro Grill & Bar's Saturday brunch offering is more of a community dining experience. Located inside La Ville Hotel and Suites, it's a tranquil dining experience situated around the cosy streets of City Walk. Perhaps the only sound emanating from the immediate surroundings is the faint music of the DJ inside the steakhouse.

Forget seafood here - the Graze brunch is all about the beef. Sure, some seafood finds its way to the menu but for the most part, it's all steak and brisket. Make sure you come hungry. The menu is a healthy mix between steakhouse standards, pub fare and some Arabic fusion. The most concrete example is the Smoked Brisket Flatbread which reminded me of Arabic saj and, of course, shawarma. Beyond that, you've got sliders, steaks, a nice garden salad, and fried calamari - all classic brunch offerings. And that's where Graze is different from others.  The menu is simple, but they take the time to elevate it into a better dining experience.
Taste
I would recommend their calamari and sliders for the heavy hitters and the perfectly seasoned garden salad. The brisket flatbread had some strong spice to it and it's a messy, albeit fun dish. A massive shoutout for the glorious White Chocolate and Berries cake, a fitting conclusion to feast of meat.
Ambience
I cannot stress this enough - dine inside. The outside setting takes you out a little bit from the experience as it gets pretty warm. Plus, you're missing out on the plush interiors and the beats from the DJ. There is also the sight of the open kitchen which is a sight to behold. 
Service
A server is as good as his/her skills as a conversationalist and it was great to have a chat with the staff every now and then. They are quite attentive to the diner's needs. The dishes come really quick so you're bound to get a full table faster than you think.
Presentation
Garden colours - that's how I'd define the Graze Brunch. The deep greens and lush reds cut through the browns and blacks of the place. Each dish was garnished with a salad. The best presented dish was the brisket flatbread with a massive bed of greens laced with white sauce all tucking the in-house smoked brisket underneath.
Value for Money
The price is middle of the road at Dh225 for unlimited food and soft beverages, plus an additional Dh100 for the in-house offerings.Appetisers are great as standalone dishes and the majority will stock up on that. The only catch is you can enjoy only a single serving of the main course.
keith@khaleejtimes.com

• Food and Dining