If there’s one thing Dubai knows how to do well, it’s weekend dining. From high-energy brunches that feel more like a party than a meal, to laid-back bites by the beach, the city has perfected the art of turning food into an experience. This past week, I explored four very different ways to eat, sip, and soak up Dubai’s sunshine—each with its own personality and vibe.
Party Brunch at La Carnita
If your idea of brunch involves more dancing than dining, La Carnita’s Fuego Friday brunch is the place to be. Housed inside the Intercontinental Hotel at Dubai Marina, this brunch feels like a celebration from the moment you walk in. The soundtrack? Hip hop beats from DJTJ, who’s flown in straight from Toronto and is part of OVO’s crew—so yes, the vibes are as good as you’d imagine.
The food doesn’t take a backseat either. Two packages are on offer: AED 250 for the non-alcoholic option or AED 350 for the full experience. Whatever you choose, make sure you don’t leave without trying the Achiote chicken tacos (hands down, the best in Dubai) and finishing off with the churros—because some desserts are just too good to share.
A Chilled Afternoon at Masti
For something more relaxed yet still full of flavor, head to Masti, a modern Indian restaurant that brings a playful twist to traditional dishes. Located on La Mer Beach—one of the only licensed restaurants in the Meeras project—Masti offers the perfect balance between upbeat and easygoing.
What I love most is the flexibility: you can choose the classic brunch slot from 12:30 to 4:00 pm, or go for the later session from 2:30 to 6:00 pm (ideal if you’re not a morning person). Expect a sharing-style menu, but with enough variety to keep everyone at the table happy. Personal highlights include the Cassava chaat, with just the right crunch and spice, and the Pulled Tandoori Chicken Bao, a little pocket of flavor you’ll want more than one of. Prices range from AED 275 to AED 375 depending on your package.
Bookings: mastidubai.com
Sunset Sips at Drift Beach
Not every outing has to be a full meal—sometimes, a perfect evening is just about sipping something refreshing while watching the sky turn gold. That’s exactly what you get at Drift Beach, a chic beach club and restaurant tucked inside the Royal Mirage Hotel in Al Soufouh.
The atmosphere here is effortlessly elegant, with a touch of understated glamour, but the real star is the view. As the sun dips into the horizon, you’ll understand why it’s one of Dubai’s most photographed spots. For drinks, I recommend starting with a fresh coconut water—simple but perfect for the setting—paired with their chicken tacos from the bites menu. Light, fresh, and just enough to keep you lingering until the last streak of sunset fades.
Bookings: driftbeachdubai.com
A Luxe Picnic at Vida Hotel
For those weekends when you crave something outdoorsy but still refined, Vida Hotel’s 3in1 brunch offers a picnic-style experience that blends casual charm with a touch of luxury. Here’s how it works: you pick up your own picnic basket, fill it with an array of fresh starters and snacks, then head to the poolside for a live barbecue.
It’s the kind of brunch where you can take your time—nibbling on perfectly made pizza with dough that’s spot-on, sampling grilled meats straight from the BBQ, and soaking in the laid-back yet stylish atmosphere. It feels different from the usual brunch circuit, and that’s exactly what makes it special.
Final Thoughts
Dubai weekends aren’t just about where you eat—they’re about how you spend your time. Whether you’re in the mood for a lively party brunch, a chic Indian-inspired afternoon, a serene beach sunset, or a luxe picnic by the pool, the city has it all. The only real challenge? Deciding which vibe you want to chase this weekend.
