Absolutely Barbecues, or AB’s as it has come to be known, is a hugely popular, all-you-can eat franchise with two branches in Dubai – this one in the Centurion Star Tower opposite Deira City Centre and the original in the Sidra Tower on Sheikh Zayed Road. Although AB’s opened first, I am told AB’s is the copycat, the wannabe – of India’s number one such concept restaurant – Barbecue Nation. Yet here in Dubai, it’s AB’s which has the higher rating – just. Does that make it the better of the two? I think not but we are all entitled to our own opinions.
I guess the biggest differentiator between AB’s and other all-you-can-eat buffets is that, like Barbecue Nation, skewers of veg and/or non-veg kebabs are brought to the table and ‘warmed’ on an open grill – that’s what knocks everyone for a six. I must admit, it’s what I like most too. That and the chaat counter where they have, among other yummies, pani puri – yeay! The rest is basically a buffet, be it a buffet with impressive variety and quality. Their dessert counter is also worth mention. Although I have not tried their ice cream, the Marble Slab style offering was hugely tempting.
The buffet 
Dessert counter 
Chaat and starters counter 
Ladoo
Service is very good. Here again, like Barbecue Nation, tips are not accepted by the staff. I keep drawing comparison to Barbecue Nation because they are natural competitors (and also because I have recently been to the Barbecue Nation branch in Karama). Whilst AB’s was first to open in Dubai, I honestly think Barbecue Nation is better; it’s better in every single aspect from food to service to ambiance. That said, AB’s is also very, very good and for the most part, all you will need. Both offer exceptional value at around AED70 a pop. Note, free parking is available in the Centurion Star Tower. Worth a visit.
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Xerxes physically dines at, or orders from, each and every venue he reviews. He pays in full for whatever he and his companions eat, drink, take away or occasionally throw at each other. Xerxes accepts no money, gifts, discounts or free meals in return for reviews or favouritism. What you have read was NOT influenced in any way by the venue. Join me on Instagram @ravenousxerxes or email me on xerxes@dellara.com.