Bahrain: A Word About Brunch…

The Middle Eastern weekend is actually Friday and Saturday. If someone asks you out for ‘brunch’, you can expect something considerably different to the standard Western avo-on-toast meal that is served somewhere between 10-11.30am. Most brunches are based in Bahrain hotels or restaurants and commence around 12/12.30pm and finish anywhere from 4.00pm – 5.30pm. For most, there will be the option of an unlimited drinks package. I am talking alcoholic beverages. Five hours of drinking can often descend into complete mayhem. However there are veterans of the brunch game who do this on a week in and week out basis. Some of them even back it up with a brunch on Saturday although for those traveling back to Saudi, this is not ideal. They are incredibly fun, sometimes raucous and an ideal way to meet others, however if you partake, remember to pace yourself.

Brunches also often have a theme or associated novelty. For example, making balloon animals at the Movenpick, kids activities at the ART Rotana, five live cooking stations at the Four Seasons or live jazz at La Med. For brunch with a relaxed atmosphere, open outdoor space and live music: try McGettigans. Lanterns is similar. The concept of tribute bands is also a strong element to Bahrain entertainment. There’s nothing quite like watching Elvis gyrate around on stage to his number one hits while indulging in some select meat cuts. The notable mention in this category is the Crowne Plaza Christmas Brunch (yes, there are Christmas celebrations in Bahrain!), which is notorious for being a big day out.

Pack your bottled water and don’t plan for a big night afterwards!