WE CHECKED OUT THE NEW CHO GAO FOR BRUNCH

Always Easily Persuaded for Asian…

We’ve forever been fans of the Cho Gao at good-old Crowne Plaza on Hamdan St, but the new branch at InterContinental Hotel (which replaced Yacht Club) is bigger, brighter, and therefore a lot more welcoming for a lively Friday brunch.

Décor does take after the original with dark wood and red lacquer elements, lanterns and lattice dividers chopping up the dining areas, but this branch also boasts a breezy terrace and room to dance, with great DJs on tap.

Secondly, the venue pairs up with neighbouring Chamas and Circo to offer a jaw-dropping variety of food (just grab a plate and walk over); and thirdly, InterContinental has clearly spent more money on the bar – it’s manned by truly creative mixologists doing things we’ve not seen done before to Cho Gao cocktails (at extra cost during brunch). Pair that with a far-stretching feast of Pan Asian favourites from as far and wide as India, Japan and Vietnam and you’re literally spoilt for choice in the most fun way possible.

We dipped into four different types of curries, including a fresh, flaky fish curry (where was the white rice, though?) and butter chicken with just enough cream not to completely fill you up – which is crucial because they take sushi, ceviche, oysters and dim sum quite seriously here, too. Fresh, and certainly not an afterthought.

Now that the terrace is open, we’re keen to return with any seafood-loving friends, and this time stick around to mingle over post-brunch promotions.

Brunch at Cho Gao Marina Walk, InterContinental Abu Dhabi (includes access to neighbouring restaurants)

12-4pm

AED299 including soft beverages

AED399 including unlimited house beverages

AED485 including free-flowing bubbly

Bookings: 800 423463, www.dining-intercontinental-ad.ae

 

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