A new family-friendly Saturday brunch on Yas Island…

One dining trend that the capital could stand to sustain is the rise of the cheap and cheerful brunch.

Case in point, The Seafood BBQ Family Brunch at Yas Marina’s long-standing seafood eatery Aquarium. The cosy, comfortable setting is ideal for a lovely family afternoon, with a live Latin band providing the soundtrack and lots of activities to keep the little ones entertained.

Aquarium has the closest patio to the marina in the entire complex, with retractable awnings for those who need a bit of extra shade.

Aquarium has always been about the seafood – and choosing your own fish or crustacean – and this brunch is no exception. Half lobsters, big juicy prawns, succulent calamari, mussels and freshly caught fish abound. There’s skewered beef, chicken and lamb to choose from too, along with an assortment of fresh veggies, which you hand to a chef who torches your selection at the new outdoor grilling station.

Service was a little slow – it was opening day of the new brunch so we suspect just teething issues – but when our seafood did arrive it was freshly cooked and served with lots of tangy lemon aioli.

The buffet is modest, but ample with a variety of basic cheeses (parmesan, cheddar and goat), a mixed vegetable soup and a variety of salads available. Those in the mood for a stir-fry had three varieties to choose from at the noodle station.

Overall the brunch had a warm, welcoming feel, drawing a mix of couples and large groups, each table just out enjoying a bit of a nosh and the gorgeous winter weather.

Yas Marina, Abu Dhabi, Sat 1pm to 5pm. From Dhs99 to Dhs175 for unlimited drinks, with 50 per cent off for children and nannies. Tel: (050) 6969357. aquariumyasmarina.com