Last Friday, I was transported to the Mediterranean whilst still being in the UAE? How? I was invited to the recently launched Friday GourMed Brunch at the award-winning Mediterranean restaurant, Basilico in Cove Rotana Resort, Ras Al Khaimah and it was like I was in a completely different world. As you enter the resort, there is no indication of what lies behind the mountain, leading you to an idyllic view of the sea. 

We decided to take full advantage of the Dubai Winter breeze (whilst it lasts) and dined outdoors, surrounded by beautiful wooden beam work and overlooking the breath taking sea-side view of the Arabian Gulf. The views was accompanied by a live music entertainment duo, playing feel good tracks such as Despacito (who doesn’t love THAT song?!). For a few minutes we simply took in our surroundings, breathing it all in, in complete awe.

Once the hunger pangs began to make themselves known, Mr Z and Master Z ventured indoors to check out the buffet spread, whilst I pondered over the A La Carte menu. All the mouth watering dishes are in fact cooked live in their open kitchen and I started ordering a couple of dishes as well as fresh juice (I always go for a Mango drink wherever available). I was delighted to know that the a la carte dishes can be ordered an unlimited number of times, which is why they are of small portions but so beautifully presented.

Once the boys were back, it was my turn to scout the Buffet Spread, which I must say was very extensive in it’s range. From cheeses to sushi, fruits to lasagnes, creme brulee to mini Dum Biryani pots, I was spoilt for choice. The pictures above speak for themselves, and gives you an idea of the kind of food you can expect when you visit better than I could put into words.

As for the A La Carte Menu, we picked quite a few from the list, devouring two plates of the Homemade Ravioli. A few other favourites was the Baked Half-Chicken, Lamb Chops and Sauteed Garlic Shrimps. Every single dish that I tried was finger-licking good, and I couldn’t help myself to seconds. Mr Z particularly enjoyed their selection of Kebabs.

Apart from the buffet and a la carte menu, waiters were also bringing along mini bites (the Crab Cakes were insanely delicious) as well as one of the chefs offering Risotto from a Cheese Wheel (as pictured below). Be rest assured that during this Brunch, you will be spoilt.

Their service was excellent, and the a la carte dishes were brought out within minutes of ordering, even as the restaurant was getting busier by the minute. The staff were extremely friendly and Master Z had plenty of options to dine from, so that made him content.

If you love Mediterranean cuisine, and are looking for a Friday reset away from the city-scape to refresh your minds and indulge your senses, I would highly recommend this brunch.

The GourMed Brunch is taking place at the Cove Rotana RAK every Friday between 12-4 pm and costs AED 255 per person, with kids under age of 5 dining free, and kids between 6-12 years old dining at half price.

Win a Night’s Stay for TWO!

The Brunch also offers diners a chance to win a one night’s stay for two people. All you have to do after attending the Brunch is follow them on Instagram (@coverotanaresort) , take a selfie and post the photo on your Instagram account. Make sure to caption #GourMedBasilico, tag @thecoverotanaresort as well as two of your friends.

Best Photo of the week to win the amazing prize is announced ever Sunday on their Instagram page.

Have you been to the Cove Rotana Resort in Ras Al Khaimah? Do you enjoy Mediterranean cuisine?

Note: I was kindly invited by Cove Rotana Resort RAK to review their Friday Brunch at Basilico. However, all views and opinions expressed above are honest and solely my own.