The brand-new venue is already becoming one of the hottest bars in town…

It was only a few weeks ago that Iris Dubai announced it would be opening at a brand new location, moving from its home in Business Bay to Meydan. But it didn’t take long for word to spread, and as we visit on its first Friday brunch the entire venue is packed.

The design of the new venue is very impressive, with industrial fixtures and bright floral furnishings. It’s easy to see inspiration has been drawn from the brand’s Beirut roots, but given a Dubai spin to suit the city’s high expectations. Most impressive is the skyline view in the distance, which gives us serious NYC rooftop bar vibes.

Across the multi-level space, which is entirely outdoors (including the bright yellow Russian doll-shaped toilet cubicles), there’s a mix of high tables and sofa seating. The brunch is spread around the venue via live cooking stations, and we’d advise to get your plates full early to avoid queuing later.

Options include fresh hand-rolled sushi, pasta with a choice of truffle sauce or arrabbiata, mini tacos and nachos. You’ll also find a barbecue station, grilling up everything from burgers and chicken to seafood before your eyes. It’s not a brunch for foodies, but the refined selection has been executed well.

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Drinks are served to the table, and poured by an energetic member of staff who remained cheerful throughout, despite a few too many late shifts over the opening week. You can choose from an array of cocktails (we’re told the espresso martini is a must-try), champagne, wine and beer or house spirits.

At the dessert stand, you’ll find a moreish Swiss Mövenpick ice-cream selection including salted caramel, vanilla, chocolate and an array of tasty toppings. You’ll also find a chef whipping up Nutella crepes with fresh fruit, and a variety of mini cakes.

From the moment you walk in there’s an uplifting atmosphere provided by the DJ, who draws a strong crowd of brunchers around the elevated DJ booth by the time the sun goes down.

The four-hour brunch has a range of packages available, starting from Dhs250.

If you’d like to go for food only, the price will be Dhs250 and if you want the food with only wine and beer that will cost Dhs360. Food with the house drinks, prosecco and cocktails is Dhs420. You can also upgrade to the same but with champagne for Dhs520.

Ladies at the bar can sip on unlimited champagne and champagne cocktails for Dhs320 or if you want only house drinks at the bar (including prosecco, cocktails, wine, beer and spirits) it’s Dhs320 too.

We think the move to Meydan can only mean good things for Iris, from the view to the design, atmosphere and menu offering, they’ve hit the nail on the head. As one of Dubai’s most authentic Lebanese concepts, we’re sure Iris will continue to go from strength to strength in its new location.

Iris Brunch, Meydan (next to White), Nad Al Sheba, Fridays, 1pm to 4pm, Dhs360 food, wine & beer, Dhs420 plus prosecco & cocktails, Dhs520 plus champagne. Tel: (056) 951 1442. @irisdubai

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Images: Provided