This Friday brunch is breaking the mould, with all-day beach access and a late-afternoon seating…

Dubai brunches are an institution (and believe us, we’ve done our fair share), with a pretty solid Friday format that follows a 12pm to 4pm(ish) time frame, inclusive of unlimited drinks, food and entertainment.

So, we were considerably excited to hear about the Villa Beach Brunch at Jumeirah Beach Hotel, which not only offers guests a late brunch, running from 3pm to 6pm, but also beach access from 10am.

That gives you a whole five hours, if you choose to take it (which we do) to top up your tan on the idyllic stretch of white beach in front of the gorgeous hotel with nothing but endless blue skies and the iconic sail-shaped Burj Al Arab in front of you.

Once 3pm rolls around, we’re settled on the whitewashed deck under the shade of a parasol to further enjoy the stunning views. Options include refreshing cocktails such as Aperol Spritz or, alternatively, a choice of spirits and white, blush or red wine.

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A basket of warm bread starts off the food proceedings, served with a generous helping of oil and balsamic vinegar. Be careful not to overload on the bread though, as starters are served sharing-style and there’s quite a few to get through.

Not that we’re complaining, as we tuck into fresh calamari, mozzarella with tomato, oregano and pesto, as well as a deliciously flavour-balanced bruschetta. We’re less fond of the sliced veal in a creamy tuna sauce, crispy polenta with mushroom Ragu and chicken meatballs, which are lacking in substance and flavour.

By the time our mains arrive, we’re considerably full, however we are presented with two sizeable sharing platters – one filled with delightfully-seasoned sea bass, shrimp and salmon, and the other, a mixed grill. Sides are a fabulous affair, with creamy risotto, Tuscan fries and broccolini with pine nuts, and the chefs selection of desserts rounds things off nicely.

The package is priced at Dhs349 for soft beverages and Dhs449 for house beverages, which might sound a little pricey for a three-hour brunch, however when you consider the full-day beach access and sheer volume of food, we consider it money very well spent.

Villa Beach Brunch, Villa Beach, Jumeirah Beach Hotel, Dubai, Fridays, 3pm to 6pm with beach access from 10am, Dhs349 soft, Dhs449 house. Tel: (04) 406 8719. jumeirah.com

Images: Provided