Pit Stop Brunch @ Origins, Yas Viceroy Hotel

As the name suggests, this brunch markets itself to capitalise on its location, set literally inside the Abu Dhabi F1 track. Great views over the track from the expansive terrace will make this a special experience for the motoring enthusiast, or for any party just interested in something a bit different from a high-end Abu Dhabi brunch.   THE FOOD   The focus here is on regional cuisines from the most famous race courses around the world, from Monaco to Shanghai. The foods on pole position can vaguely be categorised into Seafood, Chocolates and Cheeses! These are the three stand-outs of the food selection. A large variety of seafood is available to get you started with freshly prepared sashimi and sushi proving popular, There is something very "A-list" about the preparation of succulent lobster, grilled freshly in front of you as you sip on a chilled glass of Laurent Perrier whilst gazing profoundly over the track from your vantage point on the terrace. Outstanding! The main course selection provided a good quantity and quality of international dishes, although there was very limited choice if you have little ones in tow aside from some fish and chips and margarita pizza's. Now for the part that made this brunch truly memorable. A huge dessert area is located across from the lobby from the restaurant in 'The Library' with seemingly endless selections of chocolate and sweet options. Cakes, tarts, ice-cream, puddings, chocolate fountains to name only a few of the options. The extensive range of high quality cheeses from both the UK and France, typify the variety available at the whole brunch (more crackers please!)   THE DRINK   A selection of welcome cocktails on arrival starts the experience with a bang, with premium hops and selection of wines available. As you would expect at this price point, a selection of 2 decent red and 2 decent whites are available, and rather uniquely (we have found) prosecco is also available as part of the base 'with alcohol' package. An upgrade option for french champagne (Laurent Perrier) available for those celebrating something special is offered too. At times it was a challenge to get drinks replenished, with the service team seemingly more interested in ensuring the bill was paid only half way through the brunch than attending to the drinks, however this was soon rectified when this oversight was pointed out. A selection of spirits and soft drinks is also available.   THE OTHER STUFF   There is a room for kids set up down the hall from the restaurant with some toys, computer games and of course, the obligatory bouncy castle. This area is supervised by hotel staff for older kids, but with no direct visibility to this area from the main restaurant, parents of younger kids (<4) need to 'stand guard' meaning that Origins is possibly not the most relaxing brunch option for families with younger kids. There isn't much room to bring the prams and strollers to the table side so make sure you request a reasonably accessible table when booking to make your afternoon with the family stress free. The ultra-modern design of the restaurant can make it feel a bit sterile to some, although the live singing back-ground music helps to create a bit of a laid back ambience and drown out the din if any speeding motorists who may be nearby on track day. When closing time arrived, the staff were relaxed and happy enough to allow you keep chatting and hanging on which was great.     Every Friday, from 12.30pm-4.00pm   AED 225* per person AED 375* per person including house beverages AED 480* per person including premium beverages and bubbly AED 120* per child aged 5 to 12 Children 4 years and under are complimentary   To make a reservation call +971 2 656 0600 or email dining@viceroyhotelsandresorts.com