Saturday mornings have a reputation for being slow, indulgent, and full of promise. It’s the one day you can take your time getting out of bed, wrap yourself in your cosiest robe, and look forward to something a bit special. That something, for many, is brunch.
But not just any brunch—the best Saturday brunch. The brunch transforms a sleepy weekend morning into a feast of flavours, laughter, and shared memories. Whether you’re a foodie or just someone who loves catching up with friends on weekends, brunch is the perfect excuse to gather and enjoy.
In this blog, we’ll explore why Saturday brunch has become such a treasured ritual, what makes it a truly standout experience, and how the right mix of brunch food and unlimited drinks can make your weekend even more fun and unforgettable.
The Rise of the Saturday Brunch Ritual
Once upon a time, brunch was considered a novelty—a meal that blurred the line between breakfast and lunch, mainly invented for late risers who missed both. But over the last decade, brunch has transformed into a cultural phenomenon.
In cities across the world, restaurants fill up every weekend with friends, families, and couples all searching for the best Saturday brunch. And why wouldn’t they? The modern brunch is more than a meal. It’s a chance to:
- Press pause on a hectic week.
- Reconnect with loved ones without the rush of weekday obligations.
- Indulge in dishes you’d never attempt at home.
- Experiment with playful cocktails and mocktails before noon.
There’s something undeniably liberating about enjoying a Grilled Lobster, a side of Deep-Fried Dumplings (Kimchi), and a drink of Rice Wine (Makgeolli), all before the clock hits midday.
What Makes a Great Saturday Brunch?
So, what exactly sets the best Saturday brunches apart from the rest? It’s not just about what’s on the plate—although that helps. A memorable brunch experience blends a few key ingredients:
1. A Warm, Welcoming Atmosphere
The best brunch spots make you feel at ease the moment you walk in. Think relaxed lighting, comfortable seating, and a team of hosts who treat you like a guest rather than a customer.
On Saturdays, when you’re unwinding from a busy week, a cosy space can feel like a sanctuary. Many diners say that the atmosphere is just as important as the food itself.
2. A Menu That Balances Comfort and Creativity
At Nuri, the best Saturday brunch isn’t just about classics—it’s about celebrating Korean flavours with creative flair. You’ll start with appetisers like spinach and seaweed salads, delicate beef tataki drizzled with truffle soy, bulgogi kimchi tacos, and crisp, deep-fried dumplings. A colourful sushi platter rounds out the first course, offering a little taste of everything.
The second course brings warm, comforting favourites: golden kimchi pancakes, seafood pancakes, sticky Yangnyeom & Ganjang chicken, Japchae spring rolls, and grilled cheese corn dusted with shichimi spice. Each dish balances rich, savoury notes with bright, fresh touches that keep you coming back for more.
For mains, choose from tender Galbijjim short ribs, Bassak Bulgogi beef, miso-marinated black cod with gochujang sauce, or grilled lobster with lemon butter. Dessert is a platter of homemade yuzu cheesecake, mochi ice cream, fresh fruit, and berries.
3.Unlimited Drinks That Delight
Whether you prefer an iced matcha latte or a cheeky glass of prosecco, the drinks menu is where brunch becomes truly special. At Nuri, you can sip on smooth espresso, rich cappuccino, or a classic Americano to start your morning right.
If you’re in the mood for something traditional, there’s a beautiful selection of Korean honey teas—soothing ginseng, fragrant yuja, sweet honey jujube, Omija, and tart green plum. Each brew brings a comforting warmth that pairs perfectly with your meal.
Of course, the best Saturday brunch experiences also include unlimited inventive cocktails that turn an ordinary weekend into a celebration. Whatever you choose, Nuri’s thoughtful bottomless drinks make every sip feel like part of the occasion.
4. Shared Plates, Shared Moments
Brunch is inherently social. Unlike dinner, where everyone orders their own plate, brunch often involves a mix of everything. A table crowded with sweet and savoury dishes is an invitation to reach across, sample, and share.
This communal approach transforms the meal into a connection—something that feels more like a gathering of friends than a formal affair.
Why Do We Love Saturday Brunch So Much?
Ask any brunch lover why this ritual feels so special, and you’ll likely hear a mix of practical and emotional reasons.
A Slow Start to the Weekend
There’s no alarm clock dictating your Saturday schedule. Brunch lets you ease into the day at your own pace. It feels indulgent simply because it permits you to slow down.
A Sense of Treating Yourself
Brunch is an event, a reason to wear your favourite casual outfit and eat something you wouldn’t on a weekday. It’s self-care in the form of fluffy waffles and a second cup of coffee.
A Way to Reconnect
Life gets busy. Brunch offers a consistent way to stay connected with friends and family. One shared meal a week can nurture relationships in a way that messages and quick phone calls never could.
A Culinary Adventure
For many, brunch is a way to explore new flavours. From international dishes to creative cocktails, the variety is endless. You can try something daring without committing to a whole dinner portion.
Saturday Brunch: A Global Affair
Though brunch is often associated with Western dining, it has been embraced around the globe. From dim sum brunches in Hong Kong to mezze spreads in the Middle East, each culture brings its flair.
In Abu Dhabi, brunch has become almost an art form. Some venues host elaborate buffets featuring a wide range of dishes, from fresh seafood to decadent desserts. Others focus on refined set menus served table-side.
This diversity means you’ll never run out of options when you’re searching for the best Saturday brunch in your city.
Tips for Making the Most of Your Saturday Brunch
Ready to make your next brunch extra special? Here are a few tips:
- Book ahead: Popular spots fill up quickly, especially if they offer live music or themed menus.
- Pace yourself: It’s easy to overindulge when everything looks delicious. Try starting light, then going back for your favourites.
- Try something new: Step out of your comfort zone. Whether it’s a new cuisine or an unfamiliar cocktail, the best brunches are full of discovery.
- Make it a tradition: Consider making Saturday brunch a regular date with friends or family. Rituals give us something to look forward to.
Conclusion
From lazy mornings to lively tables, brunch has earned its place as a treasured weekend ritual. It’s a meal that celebrates both food and connection, and it’s one of the simplest ways to transform your Saturday into something worth remembering.
So next time you’re craving a little indulgence and a lot of good company, gather your favourite people and head out in search of the best Saturday brunch.