Embark on a gastronomic adventure through Abu Dhabi, a city that’s not just the capital of the UAE but also a burgeoning hotspot for Italian cuisine. From Michelin-starred establishments to charming pizzerias, this journey will take you to the five best Italian restaurants in the city, each offering a unique taste of Italy’s rich culinary heritage.
Cipriani, Yas Island
Cipriani, a gem of elegance and class, welcomed its first guests in 2010. Nestled by the breathtaking Yas Marina and the thrilling Yas Marina Circuit in Abu Dhabi, it swiftly captured the hearts of the city’s high society. The restaurant’s design is timelessly stylish, with a terrace offering a view of majestic superyachts.
Specializing in Venetian and traditional Italian cuisine, Cipriani’s menu is a testament to authenticity, with fresh ingredients flown in every week directly from farms in Italy. Standout dishes include the exquisitely thin veal tonnato, the delightful scallops sautéed in lemon and butter, a mouth-watering seafood spaghetti, and the sumptuous wild-caught sea bass. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience that combines the finest Italian culinary traditions with the luxurious backdrop of Abu Dhabi.
Talea by Antonio Guida, Emirates Palace
Talea, a restaurant at the Emirates Palace – one of the luxury hotels in Abu Dhabi, showcases the best of modern Italian cooking. It’s led by Chef Antonio Guida, famous for his amazing work at Seta, a Michelin-starred restaurant in Milan. Chef Guida brings a touch of his family’s cooking and traditional Italian flavors to Abu Dhabi. The menu is filled with delicious dishes like homemade slow-cooked duck ravioli and turbot, a type of fish in a special Mediterranean sauce called guazzetto.
Talea has already earned a Michelin star, a big honor in the restaurant world, showing how great the food is. One of the highlights is their tiramisu, a classic Italian dessert. It’s not just served to you; it’s put together right at your table, making it a fun and tasty experience you shouldn’t miss. So, if you’re ever in Abu Dhabi and looking for an amazing Italian meal, Talea is the place to go!
Marmellata, Mina Zayed Port
Marmellata, a cozy and delightful pizzeria in Abu Dhabi, is quickly becoming famous for its delicious pizzas. This special restaurant started as a family project, and now it’s run by an amazing father-son team. They have a special way of making pizzas and stuffed focaccias (another type of yummy Italian bread) that everyone loves.
One of their most popular pizzas is the half-half pizza. It’s a unique mix of flavors you might not find anywhere else. Imagine one side of the pizza with tasty pepperoni and soft garlic confit, which is garlic-cooked until tender. The other side has a sweet and spicy touch with honey that’s a little spicy, juicy fig, rich gorgonzola cheese, crunchy pistachios, and a zesty hint of lemon. It’s a mix of different tastes that work together perfectly. If you’re ever in Abu Dhabi and looking for a great place to eat, Marmellata is a must-try spot for pizza lovers!
Cafe Milano, Four Seasons Hotel
Cafe Milano, a charming eatery linked to a famous Washington DC restaurant, has opened its doors at the Four Seasons Hotel. This place is a treasure trove for lovers of Italian food. Chef Delfino Chiarello, the mastermind in the kitchen, is dedicated to keeping Italian cooking traditions alive. He creates mouth-watering dishes that are both authentic and innovative. One of his specialties is the ‘fileja Armani with braised short rib,’ a dish that perfectly combines tender meat with flavorful pasta, offering a taste of Italy on a plate.
What makes Cafe Milano even more special is its outdoor terrace. This isn’t just a place to eat; it’s an experience. Imagine sitting outside, surrounded by a calm and elegant atmosphere, savoring these delicious Italian meals. Whether you’re a food enthusiast or just looking for a lovely place to dine, Cafe Milano’s blend of tradition and ambiance is a must-visit spot. It’s a little piece of Italy, right in the hotel’s heart, waiting to be discovered and enjoyed.
Antonia, Mamsha Al Saadiyat
Antonia’s restaurant is a big hit, especially with people who work in other restaurants. They make a special square pizza, just like in Rome, Italy. What’s cool is they use a sourdough recipe that’s 50 years old! Sourdough is a special bread dough that makes the pizza taste extra good.
The menu at Antonia’s is like a trip back in time to ancient Rome. They serve classic Roman dishes like “cacio e pepe” – a cheesy pasta with pepper – and delicious homemade veal meatballs. Veal is a kind of meat from young cows.
But the show’s star is their “patate e rosmarino” pizza. It has potatoes and rosemary, which might sound unusual, but it’s really tasty. The best part? You can eat this amazing pizza while sitting at tables that face the ocean. Imagine enjoying a slice of pizza while looking out at the beautiful sea! That’s what makes Antonia’s place so special.
Final Thoughts
Abu Dhabi’s Italian food scene is amazing and varied, perfect for any taste. Imagine having a wide choice: from a simple, yummy pizza to a fancy dinner at a Michelin-starred restaurant or trying traditional Italian dishes that have been made the same way for years. These five places we’re talking about? They’re the best at making your meal memorable and delicious.
Whether craving something familiar or trying something new and fancy, these restaurants have got you covered. It’s a great way to explore different flavors and enjoy a tasty and special meal.
