A Dubai brunch at home: what drinks to order

In Dubai, brunch is not just a late breakfast. It's an event: a long table, music and a glass of something sparkling. It is easy to host at home, for less money and with only your own people.

The base: sparkling

The brunch classic is Prosecco: light, fresh, affordable and great with food. For a special occasion, go for Champagne. Simple rule: Prosecco for the table, Champagne for the toast.

Second choice: rosé and white

Not everyone drinks bubbles all day. Put a bottle of rosé or a light white such as Pinot Grigio on the table. Both work with salads, seafood and eggs Benedict.

For those who like it stronger

• Gin and tonic with cucumber: fresh and not heavy
• Mimosa: sparkling wine and orange juice, half and half
• Alcohol-free options too: tonic with lime, lemonade

How much to get

For a 3 to 4 hour brunch, plan on one bottle of wine or sparkling per two people, plus water and soft drinks. A group of 6 to 8 usually needs 3 to 4 bottles of sparkling and one or two bottles of wine.

Serving

Chill the bottles in advance: sparkling to 6-8 °C, white and rosé to 8-10 °C. Keep them in a bucket of ice and water so they stay cold all afternoon, even when it's 40 °C outside.

Order ahead and delivery brings everything chilled in time for the first toast.