The background

The UK flagship of the Dubai original, ‘Rüya’ means ‘dream’ in Turkish, and the Anatolian-inspired restaurant, lounge and bar explores influences from Anatolian regions stretching from the Mediterranean to the Black Sea. Dishes are designed for sharing and socialising, as you would in an authentic Anatolian kitchen.

The space

It might be a homely concept, but there is nothing homely about the Rüya interiors. The dark and glamorous space welcomes you in to take a seat at one of the large turquoise or dark-wood tables, while burnt-orange leather or fabric chairs certainly make for comfortable seating, but in a very modern, upmarket way. Large copper pots line the mirrored walls, while bold wall tiles add texture and colour to the room, a reminder of the places inspiring each dish. Recessed statement brass ceiling lights with a collection of Edison bulbs add a warm glow that helps you lose track of time by your second dish.

The menu

Chef patron Colin Clague (formerly of Zuma and Caprice Holdings) has created some new brunch menu additions to welcome the colder weather. Diners can now enjoy square parcels of spinach, kale and feta cheese gözleme (a Turkish flatbread), which arrive beautifully presented on a board with a lemon, fresh from the grill, and a bowl of yoghurt to accompany. The menemen (scrambled eggs with onion, peppers and tomato) is a colourful bowl of perfectly done eggs, the toasted cinnamon bread that comes with it adds a welcome crunch. For a dish sure to kick-start your day in the best way, try the aged kaşar cheese pide with slow-cooked organic egg. This traditional Turkish flatbread is toasted and comes with a glorious filling of cheese. An egg adds the finishing touch, which the waiter will ceremoniously break, allowing the yolk to flow over the bread in a glorious combination of breakfast greats. To finish, the new Turkish coffee- flavoured waffles with chestnut, honey and kaymak (similar to clotted cream) make an indulgent finale that is perfect for sharing.

The drinks

A dedicated Brunch Drinks menu is served from 11:30am-4pm, and includes a Bloody Mary menu – try the smoky Mary (Meteoro Mezcal, Bloody Mary mix, tomato juice, lemon) for a sophisticated twist, or if you’d prefer a classic, the signature peach bellini (white peach purée, peach liquor, champagne) is crisp and sweet. For something with less kick, the mocktail menu includes the energising detoxijo (fresh cucumber, mint, lime, agave, jasmine tea soda), or, of course, you can’t go wrong with Turkish coffee.

The bill

A variety of sharing plates, and cocktails for two, £120

Summary

The spacious interior and varied sharing menu makes this a great choice for brunch with a group of friends or family, especially during the festive season – it’s also in the perfect position to brave Winter Wonderland post-refuelling or to take in the pretty Christmas lights of surrounding Mayfair with a gentle stroll.

Brunch is available on Sat and Sun; Rüya, 30 Upper Grosvenor Street, London W1K 7PH; ruyalondon.com