We checked out the stunning and stylish Barfly by Buddha-Bar at the Hilton on the Palm, and found the food and entertainment to be super hot.
We love nothing more than a venue that makes an effort with what they do, and the new-ish contender to the evening brunch and supper club scene Barfly delivers flair and fancy in epic style.
The restaurant’s dark and delicious interior complete with floor to ceiling glass windows from a sky-high view over a glittering Palm Jumeirah below, to the subdued and intimate lighting, the sprawling roof terrace, and dark corners packed full of stylish diners, are what impresses from the moment you enter. The vibe is slick and moody, with a live DJ providing smooth dance beats. We entered via a long candle lit corridor, for maximum enchantment. We were seated near the open terrance – a little too steamy this time of year – but with glorious views across the sea and to the Marina, perfect for a quick photo at least.
Quickly served and served with a beverage of our choice, we were given the set menus to browse from while choosing a package – we naturally chose the prosecco package, however there’s also the house version and soft drinks package available. Our first course of cold starters featured an octopus and citrus salad with quinoa, fresh oysters with lemon, followed by delicious hot starters with cute beef bao buns printed with the Barfly logo (a nice touch that we applaud).
We also had crispy tempura prawns and vegetables, cooked to perfection, plus a mushroom open tart, and while we were eating some absolutely stunning dancers appeared. First performing in glittering Thai style gowns, their choreography and confidence matched the venue’s oozing charm perfectly, they then changed into sparkly red gowns with feathers, similar to a belly dancer costume. They were definitely a cut above the usual brunch style entertainment.
But, back to the food, as our next course arrived – although this time in liquid form, as a drinks trolley rolled past us and we were offered a bespoke shot, either passionfruit or mango by our personal bartenders. Served in a smoking tray, this was the perfect palette cleanser before the main course, which was of course their famous sushi! Served as sharing style on a large decadent iced platter, with salmon, prawn, and vegetable options, all of which were deliciously fresh and crunchy.
We actually thought this was the main course – but alas! There was another round of noodles, Kung Pao chicken, and skewers with chicken, prawn, and beef to go, by which point we were stuffed and ready to party. It was however extremely tasty, and was followed shortly after by a dessert tray of churros with chocolate sauce, watermelon, fruit tarts, chocolate cake, and a vanilla pudding. This is not a brunch where they scrimp on food or serving you drinks, which were free-flowing. After dining the dancers came out again, this time breathing and eating fire, which seemed like the perfect signal for us to join the other glammed up party gals that were dancing away alongside their tables. A highly recommended lively night brunch.
For more information or reservations, please visit www.barflydubai.ae/ or Instagram @barflydubai
