A lavish buffet, spirited entertainment and zesty vibes are what Melissa Nazareth experienced at The Village Brunch.

Downtown Rotana’s new brunch has all the trappings of a perfect weekend activity. On a late Friday morning, I drove to this city-centre hotel located in Manama. As I stepped into the lobby, I first noticed the collection of eye-catching artworks. I took a moment to admire them before heading to the eighth floor, where The Village Brunch is hosted.

Al Maha Ballroom was transformed into a charming little village. A fountain adorned with decorative flamingos welcomed me. The space was beautifully designed, with cute illustrated wall hangings and an arrow signpost, all replicating a village square – ‘Downtown Square’. The hustle and bustle of guests and servers complemented the concept.

The Game Zone, located at the far end, had a foosball table, giant Jenga and tic-tac-toe. Usually, brunches have kids’ corners, but I love the way Downtown thinks – why shouldn’t the adults have some fun of their own? There’s also a dedicated space for smaller kids on the other side, with a big TV playing cartoons and some toys. The buffet area leads onto the hall, where you can sit and dine. It has just the right number of chairs and tables (covered in cute red-checkered tablecloths) to offer a lavish yet intimate and exclusive experience. I walked in to find the live band setting the stage on fire with their sparks of talent. They were accompanied by a DJ who also had an excellent selection of music to match the vibe. The two alternated their sets throughout the brunch, so the energy never dipped.

My companions had arrived by this time and we were ready to begin the feast-ivities. You will be spoiled for choice at The Village Brunch, which features all your staples from sushi, salads and antipasti to live counters, carving stations and much more, as well as a wide selection of desserts. Those who prefer to start with something breakfast-ish – after all, it’s a brunch – can go for eggs cooked in various ways – Benedict, on toast, devilled and more.

Before we raided the buffet, we got ourselves some drinks. The bar serves soft and selected beverages. There’s also a grass wall (counter), so to speak. You ring the bell, which we did and voilà! A flap opened and out came a hand with a glass of sparkling grape! The Village Brunch is all about such fun, interactive elements – at one point, we spotted a server moving around the tables, distributing mini popcorn cones from a stand he had hoisted on his back.

I started with my favourite – sushi. Maki rolls, salmon and shrimp nigiri, tuna and salmon sashimi and more. The fish was really fresh and had an umami flavour. Even my vegan companions enjoyed the veggie options. Next, I raided the taco station or ‘Tex Mex Shop’ – the counters are named to resemble shops in a village square. One after the other, I demolished the crunchy taco shells loaded with flavorful beef and topped with creamy, refreshing guacamole. There was a chicken option too. These were hands down my favourite food, which is saying something because there was so much on offer and it was all so good. I can’t remember how many nachos I must have had. Drizzled with warm, salty cheese, this was such a hit that I dropped a green token in the bowl – every station had green and red coins to elicit guest feedback.

Ready for mains, I visited the meat station. Oh, the wonders that awaited! I piled my plate with tender beef brisket and ribs. They were cooked to perfection and the flavourful juices still intact flooded my mouth as I ate. I particularly enjoyed the chicken, which was cooked to the right temperature with a crispy skin that was coated with a subtly sweet marinade. My companion went in for a beef slider and was all praises. Ribeye and tenderloin steaks were being cooked just outside on the balcony; the seating area also has an outdoor extension that might be great to explore in the cooler months. Not a big meat eater? Try the seabass, moist, flaky and well-seasoned.

As we tucked in, we grooved to the phenomenal music that matched our feast. I discovered on scanning the hall that the energy was contagious. Families, couples and groups of friends, all swaying, foot tapping and finger clicking. There came a moment when our enthusiastic servers invited us to join them on the dance floor. Even the introverts at our table willingly obliged. The band knew well how to read the room. One moment on stage and the next among the crowd. They even humoured the karaoke heads in the house.

The fun continued, intensified with drinks and bites, this time from the antipasti and salad stations. From moreish cheeses, such as brie, blue and cranberry, to a charcuterie extravaganza. I particularly enjoyed the Caprese Salad that was made with the creamiest mozzarella ever. My daring foodie friend made trips to the raw bar, which featured a selection of fresh seafood such as clams, oysters and crab. He was ecstatic to feed us the unique seafood pasta he created at the live station. You can choose from a variety of ingredients, and the chef will cook it to your preference. We all loved his rendition!

The Village Brunch runs every Friday from 12.30pm to 5pm, with food available until 4pm and drinks thereafter, which gives guests sufficient time to try out the lavish display while taking muchneeded breaks to unwind and savour the experience.

Remember the fountain? So, as we drew close to the end of this enjoyable feast, a member of the staff came to our table with numbered tokens. We had to pick one per head and then, drop it into the fountain as we made a wish. Make sure you wish well because there’s a raffle draw based on this. Three winners took home fabulous prizes that day.

Before we said goodbye, we toured the buffet one last time, this round for desserts. I felt like I’d stepped into the cottage made of sweeties from Hansel And Gretel. The variety, from ice creams and cakes to mousses, puddings and crumbles, was mind-blowing. Crêpes, made-to-order, with a range of exciting toppings such as fruit compotes, Nutella, caramel and nuts, beckoned. Colourful meringues, mini cakes, fresh fruit, date pudding for that traditional Gulf touch… it was endless, as was our happiness when we drove home that evening. If you’re seeking a great time with amazing food and drinks – which is what brunch is all about – head to The Village Brunch.✤

GO: CALL 3360 5070 OR FOLLOW @DOWNTOWNROTANA ON INSTAGRAM FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO MAKE A RESERVATION.