Most know Blue Marlin for their sexy Ibiza beach club that rules the chicer side of the island anytime between June and September in the Balearics. But come winter, the brand shifts focus to the Emirates where midway between Dubai and Abu Dhabi they operate a satellite club just outside the Golden Tulip <span class="st">Al Jazira Hotel </span>that happens to be home to one of the best Saturday brunch scenes in the Middle East. It’s a 30-minute drive regardless of how you get there; preferably with transportation arranged in both directions to this waterfront beach compound divided between a two-story restaurant pavilion, lounge deck and waterfront beach with lounger service from 11am on weekends.
The Food
A weekend-only kitchen with brunch and dinner menu on Fridays and Saturdays features a mix of Mediterranean and French specialties. Appetizers include a lengthy sushi and sashimi menu as well as carpaccios and tartares that are prepared tableside with assortment of not-so-farm-fresh salads. While most indulge in shareable appetizers that don’t bloat the abs, others go onto heartier entrees of grilled meats and fish from sea bass to langoustines. As for desserts, forget about and just order another magnum of Cristal.
Last Word
DJs play most days from 1pm with a crowd that is one of the sexiest you’ll find anywhere in the Emirates in a setting that could just as easily be in the South of France.
