Picnic Brunch at Al Badia Golf Course

The award winning Picnic Bruch at Al Badia Golf Course has returned for what is unfortunately set to be its final season. With the Golf Course set for redevelopment, winter 2016/2017 is to be the final opportunity to enjoy what might be one of Dubai's most iconic, brunches - so be quick if you want to catch it. Set on a large grass area in front of the clubhouse and overlooking the golf course, this peaceful, stress-free family brunch is certainly one to enjoy with all the family during the cooler months that we are enjoying.   THE FOOD   A ‘Picnic Basket' starter is shared with breads, salads and some nibbles, with the kids receiving their individual box of children's items to ensure they also feel part of the action (sandwich, crisps, fruit etc). This is a BBQ themed brunch, so expect plenty of meat, much of which is cooked in what Al Badia claim to be "Dubai's largest smoker." Good quality Beef, Sausages, Chicken, Prawns and Salmon were all well seasoned and cooked thoroughly although don't go searching too hard for the vegetables and sides, as if you are in search of your 5 a day you will end up leaving disappointed. A dedicated kids buffet to supplement their 'Picnic' box ensured that the kids had plenty of other choices (to keep most kids happy), with the mini-burgers proving a particular favourite. It must be said however that the lack of selection compared to previous visits, in particular with the fresh fruit for our brunch-capable and extremely judicious younger guests was notable.     THE DRINKS   Buckets of iced hops and cider are handily served at your table/rug, with additional options of grape and house pours adding to the all-encompassing offering. The service team struggled to keep up at times, but were accommodating to most requests and persevered right through to the end with a willing smile. There is also a bubbly package for those who wish to enjoy the great outdoors with a bit of fizz (like us!) The typical range of juice options for the kids was available (apple / orange / soft-drinks etc, while the summer cocktails provided a different option to combat the heat of the creek sunshine, which went down well (both with and without alcohol).   THE OTHER STUFF   A huge grass area ensures plenty of room for kids to roam free and explore the dedicated kids entertainement and infamous "Candyland" as well as providing the ideal backdrop for a lazy day overlooking the creek. We had strollers and car seats lined up around our table, and still found ourselves with plenty of space to move around. You feel like you are well separated from the other tables which is very enjoyable, whilst not being isolated enough to enjoy the odd conversation with other passing groups or families. The usual offering of bouncy castle and face painting was supplemented with a ‘book corner', ‘mini-golf' and soft play area, all within a very short distance of the tables, meaning the kids were kept occupied all afternoon. Staff were great with the kids, setting up games and competitions to keep them entertained while the adults relaxed to the sound of the live singer, provigin a pleasant backdrop without ever being too obtrusive.   There are elements of the Brunch which have clearly slipped over the years. The selection of breads and salads in the picnic basket for one. There was just about enough umbrellas providing shade to the tables and blanketted areas, although you do need to move them around a bit as the sun moves during the afternoon which becomes a mini-game between the dads to see who is the most "manly." Aside from a few slips, this Al Badia remains a bastion of the original brunch scene and will be sorely missed when it shuts its doors for good. A very relaxing and enjoyable family experience.   Every Friday and Saturday from 11:30 AM - 3:30 PM   AED 280 including soft beverages AED 380 including house beverages AED 480 including bubbly AED 580 including French Premium bubbly AED 140 per kid 6-12 years   To Reserve call or email Al Badia Golf Club by InterContinental Dubai Festival City, For reservations, please call 04 7011127/28 or email restaurantreservation.dfc@ihg.com