A BBQ brunch that starts at 6pm on a Thursday? That could be a little confusing for most, but once you get to Story Rooftop Lounge, a quirky Peruvian restaurant that sits atop the unassuming Holiday Inn Express in Dubai Media City, you realise why they’ve used the term.
This restaurant and bar’s BBQ brunch is a great way to end a tiring week and replicate that chilled-out Friday brunch (an actual breakfast-lunch scenario) feeling that Dubai is oh-so-famous for.
Eclectic, colourful murals and funky Latin-inspired lounge music sets this eatery apart from the swanky places that are all too common in the brunch scene. The vibe is unpretentious and relaxed, the seating plush and the wait staff extremely friendly.
The buffet itself is limited but it more than makes up for this with quality and flavour. My friend, a fish lover, made a beeline for the freshly-made Red Snapper ceviche, a traditional Peruvian dish, which she said was tangy and had a great texture.
For me, it was the beef empanadas that hit the spot. I could have had 20 of those crispy parcels stuffed with moist, flavourful meat, but the BBQ on the open roof was calling my name.
Standout dish
Friendly chefs at the grill were happy to explain the BBQ options and have a little chat. Apart from the usual chicken and beef skewers, on offer were slices of beef brisket, two kinds of sausages and a vegetarian option.
One standout dish was an accompaniment to the grilled items — cassava with a simple tomato sauce bursting with flavour.
The BBQ itself tasted like usual fare and could have been punchier with its seasoning, considering the restaurant’s South American background.
The dessert options were limited but satisfying — the standouts being a sweetcorn cake that was melt-in-the-mouth soft, and an airy, fruity pavlova for those who’ve had one too many empanadas.
If you’re looking for a new place to meet friends, somewhere that is uncomplicated and hasn’t reached peak hipster status yet, then Story Lounge is your best bet.
Ultimately, the true test of a restaurant is whether you want to go back. And I definitely do.
