Liz O’Reilly discovered an eternal favourite just got better with a visit to the new brunch at Trader Vic’s.

I’ve been in Bahrain for more years than I care to mention and, in my time, I’ve tried an awful lot of brunches – some good, some not so much. But, taste buds and sense of fun at the ready, I’m always up for sampling a new Friday offering and the latest launch at Trader Vic’s at The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain did not disappoint.

Running on the first Friday of each month and offering excellent value for money, it was no surprise to find the car park and lobby area very busy when we arrived – a tip, the brunch starts at 1pm but if you want to avoid the crowds, I’d suggest arriving a little early or a bit late.

We were seated in the large open area where the stage is situated – the better to enjoy the live entertainment, of which more later. The food was set up in the outer area, no smoke to contend with there.

For those who don’t know Trader’s, the décor is Polynesian influenced with lots of bamboo and wood panelling, as well as the iconic tiki masks, all offset by an abundance of greenery and fresh flowers.

And, even though it’s brunch, there’s no lowering of standards, the tablecloths are still starched and pristine white, the tableware classy alongside crystal glasses and each space is decorated with a fresh flower.

We settled into our comfortable seats and were soon served with glasses of sparkling – much gratitude to our waiter, who kept us seamlessly topped up throughout the afternoon.

After a quick catch up on the week’s happenings with my dining companion, we headed to the food section to see what was on offer and I can honestly say, there was something for everyone to enjoy from pasta, potstickers and Asian live cooking stations to roast meats, sushi and a huge salad bar, as well as an impressive dessert selection.

I have always been rather partial to Traders’ Island Tidbits, so was delighted to see all the elements of the best-selling pupu platter available – crispy prawns, crab Rangoon, jalapeño cheese balls and chicken wings – alongside an array of dipping sauces.

My all-time favourites, jalapeño cheese balls, were crunchy on the outside giving way to a warm gooey, melting centre, decadently delicious. The crispy prawns were chunky and moreish, their sweet flesh enveloped in a tasty, crumbly coating. The chicken wings had a delicate whisper of fennel or five spice imparting a boost of flavour. And the crab Rangoon with its flaky, fried wanton outer and cheesy crab filling was perfection, an adorable starter to whet our appetites.

Billed as an Afro-Latin Brunch, we were delighted when the entertainment started with a Cuban band banging out great Latino beats. I could hardly stay in my seat, I’m a great fan of South American rhythms and the urge to move my feet was almost irresistible.

However, before taking to the dance floor, we decided it was time for some more food. After picking a selection from the extensive sushi section, my dining companion headed to the Potstickers Station where she found chicken and duck versions of the ever-popular dumplings, their delicately seasoned fillings perfectly complemented by garlic or soy-chilli dipping sauces, as well as sriracha mayo for a kick of heat.

I made a beeline for the Carving Station for a healthy portion of roasted US beef striploin and watched in mouth-watering anticipation as a new joint was brought out and carved, the juices pouring generously from the succulent meat. I added seasonal vegetables and a side of mushroom sauce but, to be honest, the sauce went untouched. Such was the robust depth of flavour from the beef that no accompaniment was necessary.

Executive Chef Marwan Slim soon came to say hello and, with a little bit of food envy going on, he escorted my dining companion for her very own serving of striploin, which was eaten in silent but obvious enjoyment.

Though almost full, I paid a visit to the pasta station and was very pleased to see plenty of veggie options in the toppings. I must say I was sorely tempted as I watched the steaming bowls of creamy goodness leaving the chef’s hands but I, sensibly, decided to save some space for dessert and, instead, headed back to our table to enjoy the amazing entertainment.

Bringing the Afro-Latin theme vividly to life, performers from La Vida Dance Studio put on a show for us with fabulous costumes and slick footwork ensuring just about everyone in the place wanted to join in. From choreographed set pieces to leading guests in an impromptu conga, they were undoubtedly the stars of the afternoon getting everyone involved and, alongside the band, really giving us a carnival feeling.

In true brunch style, we danced and sang along – this, I promise, is a great way to make new friends and highly recommended for staving off the almost inevitable Friday food coma. And, when the dancing stopped, it was time for a prize draw – we’d all been given numbered tickets – with winners heading to the stage accompanied by disco beats and prizes adding to the excitement. Now, you would be forgiven for thinking I’ve forgotten about the desserts. If you know me at all, you’ll be aware this is not something that will ever happen! However, with plenty of great food accompanied by bubbles and dancing, I have to admit, I really only visited the sweet station to look. From brownies and sorbet to panna cotta, rice pudding and an abundance of cake and fresh fruit, I decided this section would have to wait until next time. I want to do it proper justice.

I can honestly say the new brunch at Trader Vic’s is one of the best I’ve been to in a long time, from service and food to top-notch entertainment, it delivers all the way and I’m already planning to return for the next one. Hope to see you there. ✤

GO: CALL 1758 6555 FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO MAKE A BOOKING.