Tucked away in a very scenic corner of Rixos The Palm (on The Palm Jumeirah) is a fascinating new foodie getaway; El Chiringuito. Quintessentially designed to look like a dreamy Mexican enclave, complete with bougainvillea-draped corners and breath-taking views of the vividly blue Mediterranean sea, this brand new addition to the Dubai foodie scene is already being listed as one of the most happening hot-spots of the city.
Last weekend, we were invited to try out their La Familia brunch, and absolutely fell in love with the chilled out vibes of the place.
The La Familia brunch runs from 12 noon to 4 pm every weekend, with packages ranging from AED 395 to 695, inclusive of champagne. But let me take you through the gastronomic Mediterranean-style menu we were served… wholesome, beautifully plated, and lip-smackingly delicious!
We started off our brunch with an array of tantalizing appetizers.
Below is the Tuna Tartare, delicately marinated in soy and ginger, and seated on a smooth, creamy mash of coriander-infused avocado.
We also had a light, healthful Quinoa Salad tossed with roast chicken, asparagus, broccoli, red onion, coriander and olive oil.
And then there was the Italian Burrata, made complete with confit peppers, fried capers, basil and drizzles of olive oil. A decadently creamy, soulful starter to rev up the appetite.
We also had a pasta dish on our table, This is the Pasta A La Norma, El Chiringuito’s take on the classic Sicilian dish using the finest pasta with roast tomatoes, eggplant and a sprinkle of pine-nuts.
My personal favorites were the Terrine of Octopus A La Gallega, and the Goat’s Cheese Salad. The octopus was cooked to perfection, still a little wobbly, not over-cooked and with just the right amount of salt and olive oil.
The Goat’s Cheese Salad features generously large balls of salty, flaky cheese sitting on a bed of assorted greens, beetroot shreds and a delightfully sweet honey dressing. I highly recommend this! Such a delicious combination.
The dishes here are made of the freshest ingredients, all imported directly from Spain. For our mains, we had a very flavorful Seafood Paella. Unlike many I’ve had before, this dish was moist and full of seafood flavor.
The star dish of the La Familia brunch has to be their Nebraskan Black Angus Beef. A mighty 600 gram serving of prime beef, perfectly cooked a medium-rare and served with a very creamy butter-infused sauce on the side. Carnivore haven!
And through it all, we sat back and sipped on ice-cold jugs of sangria. Our afternoon here was truly laid-back, with muted conversations and eyes dreamily squinting into the stunning sunlight.
At the La Familia brunch, you really can bring along the entire brood, being rest assured that the little ones were also having a great time Little Chiringuito’, a fully supervised area dedicated to the little people in your life. So while you kick back and enjoy the kids will be kept busy in the haven of all things artsy, crafts, painting, and adventure.
And if the sunshine gets a little too overwhelming for you, there’s the pool! What a great way to chill right after an epic meal…
The DJ plays soulful numbers throughout the afternoon. Don’t be surprised if you see a handful of overly zealous friends, swaying to the tunes. Blame it on the sangria!
A true family affair, ‘La Familia’ is the only place to end your weekend on a high. From immaculately presented dishes, breathtaking interiors, familiar tunes and friendly faces, El Chiringuito is a sanctuary that will surely have me coming back for more.
El Chiringuito Dubai, is located at Rixos The Palm. With packages ranging from AED 395 – 695, the brunch concept is complimented by a premium bar and bubbles package, featuring champagne.
Brunch packages and prices –
AED395 including food, soft drinks and beverages
AED495 including food, beer & wine
AED595 including food, premium bar
AED695 including food, premium bar & bubbles
The Tezzy Files 