Italian Food Dubai Pizza
Introduction
Dubai is a melting pot of cuisines from around the world, and Italian food in Dubai is no exception. From upscale restaurants to casual trattorias, there is no shortage of places to enjoy authentic Italian cooking in this cosmopolitan city. Whether you’re craving pizza, pasta, risotto or a nice glass of Chianti, Dubai has an Italian eatery to satisfy your taste buds. Here is a look at seven of the top Italian restaurants that serve mouth-watering regional specialities with a touch of Italian flair.
I have a real passion for Italian food and luckily Dubai has an excellent choice of restaurants for all choices and budgets. There are many expensive Italian places in the city, but there are also a lot of hidden gems out there in the residential communities of Dubai. Please read the article and go and try. Check out the useful links as well for even more choices.
Overview of Italian Cuisine in Dubai
Popularity of Italian food
Italian cuisine is extremely popular in Dubai, largely thanks to the huge expat community from Europe and other parts of the world. Pasta, pizza, antipasti and risottos are beloved menu staples at restaurants across the city. Dubai residents and visitors alike seek out quality Italian food, resulting in many new eateries opening up over the years.
Influence of expat community
Many Italians call Dubai home, making up one of the largest European communities in the UAE. Their presence has influenced and shaped the Italian food scene. Authentic ingredients are imported from Italy, and dishes stay true to regional traditions. The passion for Italian flavours runs deep.
Diversity of Italian restaurants
From fine dining establishments to family-run trattorias, there are Italian options to suit every budget and taste. Wood-fired thin-crust pizza, creamy pasta Alfredo, and tiramisu are just the start. Discover new dishes like osso buco, polenta con ragu, panzanella salads and affogato. Old and new influences come together on Dubai’s Italian menus.
Top Italian Dishes To Try In Dubai
Here are some of the top Italian dishes you can try in Dubai, but of course there are many more.
- Pizza: This is a classic dish that consists of a round, flat base of dough topped with tomato sauce, cheese, and various toppings, such as vegetables, meat, seafood, or herbs. Pizza is baked in an oven and usually sliced into pieces. You can find many types of pizza in Dubai, such as Margherita, Pepperoni, Quattro Formaggi, or Hawaiian. Traditional Italian Pizza can be found in selected restaurants. See below.
- Pasta: This is another staple dish that consists of noodles made from wheat flour, water, and sometimes eggs. Pasta comes in different shapes and sizes, such as spaghetti, penne, fusilli, or ravioli. Pasta is usually boiled and served with a sauce, such as tomato, pesto, carbonara, or bolognese. You can also find pasta dishes with cheese, meat, seafood, or vegetables.
- Burrata: This is a fresh cheese that consists of a soft, creamy filling of mozzarella and cream, wrapped in a thin layer of mozzarella. Burrata is usually served cold, with bread, salad, olive oil, or balsamic vinegar. Burrata is a delicacy that originated in the region of Puglia, in southern Italy.
- Tiramisu: This is a famous dessert that consists of layers of sponge cake soaked in coffee and liqueur, alternated with a rich cream made from mascarpone cheese, eggs, and sugar. Tiramisu is usually dusted with cocoa powder or chocolate shavings on top. Tiramisu means “pick me up” in Italian, because of its energizing ingredients.
- Gelato: This is a frozen dessert that consists of milk, cream, sugar, and various flavours, such as chocolate, vanilla, strawberry, or pistachio. Gelato is similar to ice cream, but it has less air and fat, and a more intense flavour. Gelato is usually served in a cone or a cup, with toppings, such as nuts, fruits, or syrups. Gelato is a speciality of Italy, where it originated in the 16th century.
Top 7 Italian Restaurants in Dubai
Cipriani
Overview
Cipriani brings contemporary Italian cuisine and old-world glamour to the Dubai Financial Center. The iconic Venetian restaurant offers indoor and outdoor terrace seating. Expect classic Italian fare made with quality ingredients.
Signature dishes
Start with crispy artichokes and move on to linguine with clams or squash risotto. Save room for the vanilla meringue cake.
Atmosphere
The sleek and elegant vibe is accentuated by chandeliers and arched windows. White tablecloths and velvet chairs add a refined touch. It’s ideal for a romantic night out.
Roberto’s
Overview
This award-winning eatery in the Dubai International Financial Center epitomizes chic Italian dining. Roberto Rispoli heads the kitchen, focusing on Neapolitan flavours.
Signature dishes
The Mozzarella Di Bufala Caprese and pizzas baked in a wood-fired oven are favourites. Seafood Linguine in a light tomato sauce is a highlight.
Atmosphere
The hip, modern interior pairs black tables and leather chairs with accents of stainless steel. Al fresco seating is lovely on cool evenings. Jazz music enhances the vibe.
Il Borro Tuscan Bistro
Overview
Tuscan flavours take centre stage at this rustic Italian bistro. Chef Marco Garfagnini serves dishes inspired by Tuscany’s countryside using local and imported ingredients.
Signature dishes
Handmade egg pasta specialities shine, like Pici Cacio e Pepe and Tortelli di Burrata. Porcini ravioli and ribollita soup are also standouts.
Atmosphere
Weathered wood, cosy lighting and olive trees give a charming farmhouse feel. Outdoor tables offer creek views in Dubai’s sophisticated Jumeirah Al Naseem hotel.
Eataly Dubai Mall
Overview
At Italy’s popular Eataly food emporium in Dubai Mall, diners can choose from multiple restaurants and counters. Every option serves house-made pasta, pizzas, gelato and more.
Signature dishes
Neapolitan-style pizzas with inventive toppings are freshly baked in marble ovens. Hand-rolled tagliatelle with Bolognese sauce is a classic choice.
Atmosphere
With lively crowds and bustling counters, Eataly feels like a market in Rome or Florence. Gather at communal tables or belly up to the pasta bar for a uniquely Italian experience.
Trattoria Toscana
Overview
This neighbourhood trattoria brings casual Tuscan cuisine to Dubai’s Jumeirah Lakes Towers district. Daily specials supplement the menu of Italian favourites with a focus on seafood.
Signature dishes
Spaghetti Allo Scoglio with an array of fresh seafood is a standout. Octopus Carpaccio and Tuna Tartare showcase quality ingredients.
Atmosphere
With checkered tablecloths, wooden chairs and terra cotta floors, the setting matches the food’s simplicity. An airy patio offers al fresco dining.
Casa Mia
Overview
Casa Mia in the Le Meridien Hotel brings a taste of homestyle Italian food to Dubai, with recipes passed down over generations. Handmade pastas and other traditional dishes grace the menu.
Signature dishes
Spinach and Ricotta Gnocchi in a rich tomato sauce shines. The Frutti di Mare features mussels, clams, shrimp and calamari in a white wine broth over linguine.
Atmosphere
The welcoming setting has vintage Italian posters, checkerboard floors and candles on each table. Daily specials keep things fresh.
Villa Beach
Overview
At Jumeirah Beach Hotel, Villa Beach offers a seaside Italian escape. Savor wood-fired pizzas, fresh pasta and grilled meats while soaking up stunning ocean views.
Signature dishes
Perfectly charred pizzas pair nicely with pasta choices like crab linguine and seafood spaghetti alle Vongole. Grilled sea bream delivers light Mediterranean flavours.
Atmosphere
Palm trees sway over white sand at this laidback al fresco restaurant. During the day, blue water vistas steal the scene. At night, flickering torches light up the beach.
Tips for Enjoying Italian Food in Dubai
Making reservations
Italy’s popularity means tables can book up fast. Reserving ahead ensures you sample Dubai’s top Italian fare.
Exploring different neighbourhoods
Italian eateries dot districts across town. Travel to different areas for a diverse sampling. Trendy spots cluster in city centres while neighbourhood joints hold their own.
Pairing wine
An Italian meal begs for Italian wine. Let the sommelier suggest picks like Chianti, Montepulciano, Valpolicella or prosecco to match each course. Opting for the wine-pairing menu is an easy route.
Video Tour
A guide to Italian Restaurants with more options as well as some mentioned here:
Conclusion
With authentic dishes, elegant ambience and passionate chefs, Dubai’s Italian restaurants deliver fantastic experiences for foodies. From neighbourhood trattorias to upscale dining rooms, the Italian cuisine here showcases regional traditions with locally sourced ingredients. Whether meeting friends for pizza and wine or celebrating a special occasion with a multi-course Italian feast, Dubai offers an array of options to satisfy any Italian food craving.
FAQ
What is the most popular type of Italian food in Dubai?
Pizza and pasta are generally the most popular Italian dishes in Dubai. Many restaurants serve Neapolitan-style pizza fresh from wood-fired ovens. Handmade pastas like tagliatelle bolognese and seafood linguine are also customer favourites.
Which neighbourhood has the best Italian restaurants?
Downtown Dubai and the Dubai International Financial Center have clusters of high-end Italian eateries like Cipriani and Roberto’s. Jumeirah Beach Residence has casual trattorias with waterfront views. Check different areas for variety.
What is a good Italian restaurant for families with kids?
Eataly in Dubai Mall has various informal restaurants and counters so families can pick based on cravings. The bustling, casual setting with pizza and pasta appeals to kids.
What are some classic Italian dishes and ingredients I should try in Dubai?
Pizza, pasta, risotto, osso buco, gnocchi, and seafood linguine are Italian favourites available across Dubai. For ingredients, try burrata cheese, balsamic vinegar, truffles, and Italian olive oiWhat Italian desserts are popular in Dubai?
Tiramisu is on almost every Italian menu. Other picks include panna cotta, cannoli filled with ricotta, and affogato over gelato. Nutella crepes and Italian-style gelato satisfy sweet cravings too.
Are there good Italian wine selections at Dubai restaurants?
Yes, most Italian restaurants in Dubai have solid wine lists focused on Italian regions like Tuscany, Sicily, and Piedmont. Many offer wine pairings with set menus. Knowledgeable sommeliers can suggest pairing options.
What is the price range for Italian restaurants in Dubai?
There are budget-friendly Italian cafes where pizza and pasta cost 20-40 DHS. Mid-range trattorias and bistros run about 200 DHS per person. For upscale fine dining, expect to spend 300-500 DHS per person.
Should I make reservations for Italian restaurants in advance?
Yes, booking ahead is highly recommended, especially for Friday and Saturday nights. Top restaurants like Roberto’s book up a week or more in advance. Leave wiggle room when making reservations.
Are there Italian restaurants with water views?
Yes, several spots like Villa Beach, Trattoria Toscana, and Casa Mia have terraces overlooking either the Arabian Gulf or Dubai Creek, allowing al fresco waterfront dining. Call ahead for patio seating.
What should I wear to high-end Italian restaurants in Dubai?
Smart casual dress is recommended at most nicer Italian spots. For men, collared shirts and dress pants or neat jeans work. For women, dresses, skirts, or pants with a nice blouse are suggested. Check the dress code when booking.
Useful Links
- Looking for even more Italian Restaurants in Dubai? Check out this list of 36,
- Want to try Emirati food? Check this article on Emirati Food in Dubai.
- There are also many Indian restaurants in Dubai with a huge expatriate population.
- Thai food is also very popular in Dubai.
- There are some great restaurants in Dubai Marina.
- Like seafood? Then read this post about seafood in Dubai.
- Here is a great general travel guide to Dubai
- Like French Food. Check out this article.
- You should try the Chinese restaurants in Dubai. They are amazing.
- Looking for romantic spots in Dubai?
Key Takeaways
- Authentic Italian cuisine is very popular in multicultural Dubai, with a wide variety of pizzerias, trattorias and upscale ristorantes.
- Downtown Dubai and DIFC offer high-end fine-dining Italian spots like Cipriani and Roberto’s known for ambience and quality.
- More casual neighbourhood trattorias serve classics like handmade pasta, wood-fired pizzas, and seafood linguine at moderate prices.
- Make reservations in advance, especially on weekends when tables are limited at top restaurants.
- Tuscan, Neapolitan, Sicilian and other regional Italian flavours are represented across Dubai.
- Pairing Italian wine with each course enhances the dining experience. Let the sommelier suggest pairings.
