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    The most exquisite fine-dining Italian restaurants to try in Dubai

    Transport yourself to the heart of Italy with Dubai’s most loved Amalfi-inspired havens.
    From freshly-baked pizzas to authentic handmade pastas topped with fresh parmesan, Italian restaurants are sure to impress on any special occasion with its universally loved dishes and romantic environment.
    Be it a simple cacio e pepe and margherita pizza eaten with friends or an extravagant lobster rigatoni laced with caviar and truffle, each restaurant inspired by the Amalfi coast is sure to tantalise your taste buds with the finest ingredients.
    To see where to book next, we’ve selected the ones that consistently come on top and have been tried-and-tested by the Emirates Woman team.
    Il Borro Tuscan Bistro

    Il Borro Dubai opened back in 2017, and has made a mark in the UAE with its sumptuous delicacy and luxe ambience. Il Borro has managed to become the hotspot in town for a casual fine dining experience within the Italian circle of restaurants offering seasonal menu offerings for both lunch and dinner. The hero dishes include the Bresaola di Chianina, parmesan cheese and wild rocket horseradish mousse. Located in Jumeirah Al Naseem, this one-of-a-kind Italian hotspot is a must visit.
    For more information visit ilborrotuscanbistro.ae
    The Artisan

    The renowned Italian restaurant, The Artisan has a host of new À La Carte dishes where each item on the menu is carefully crafted with the finest ingredients, presenting traditional flavours in an elegant way. From homemade potato gnocchi to homemade cappellacci, there are a host of hearty dishes that transport guests to Lombardy in northern Italy. The Artisan’s new menu is a celebration of traditional Italian food, crafted with elegance and sophistication. With dishes that highlight the flavours of every region, diners can embark on a gastronomic journey without ever leaving the comfort of their seats. Located in Waldorf Astoria in DIFC, it’s open from Monday to Sunday, 12pm to 12am.
    For more information visit theartisan.ae
    Scalini

    Captivating and contemporary artwork adorns the walls and diners are seated at elegant tables with crisp white linens, delicately accented with subtle hints of sage green soft furnishings and chic and elegantly refined tableware. Guests are invited to indulge in Scalini’s exquisite menu, with thoughtfully curated dishes that capture the essence of quintessential Italian cuisine, designed to be shared between friends, family and loved ones. Located at Restaurant Village, Four Seasons Resort Jumeirah.
    For more information visit scalini-dubai.com
    Roberto’s

    This contemporary Italian restaurant has won the hearts of many, including ours. With fresh ingredients flown in from Italy, each dish is crafted to perfection. From oysters to Rawberto’s platters, this restaurant is a seafood delight. A must-try from their dessert menu is the freshly made in-house pistachio ice cream served with extra virgin olive oil. What was once a mistake, has now become a signature for tourists to try from around the globe. The restaurant is located in DIFC, Gate Village 1.
    For more information visit scalini.com
    Luna Rossa

    To savour authentic Italian dishes, this all day dining spot is located in the heart of Dubai in Business Bay. From traditional pizzas to signature creations like the indulgent Pappardelle alla Genovese di Manzo, the freshness of our Tartare di Gambero Rosso di Mazara del Vallo, and the decadent Pizza Tartufella, our menu offers a diverse culinary journey. Each dish embodies our commitment to authentic Italian dining, ensuring a memorable experience for every palate. It’s open daily from 8am to midnight.
    For more information visit lunarossa.com
    Limonata

    Visit the new stunning beach restaurant Limonata, inspired by the vibrant nostalgia of 1960s Italian coastal char. With each dish being an outcome of a passionate odyssey through the heart of authentic flavors, guests can expect a myriad of delicious dishes including alluring antipasti, refreshing salads, moreish, which include a symphony of culinary creations that are an ode to Italian coastal culture. Located at Club Vista Mare, Palm Jumeirah, it’s open daily from 12pm to 2am.
    Chic Nonna

    The Italian restaurant Chic Nonna is the perfect date-night spot or restaurant to visit with your friends. With state-of-the-art interiors and a high-quality menu, the restaurant is complete with an open-plan kitchen, the largest wine cellar in the region and a sophisticated chef’s table. To create an inviting ambience, the space has warm cosy interiors reminiscent of a traditional Italian home. To make any visit even more memorable the venue offers engaging live entertainment with a striking DJ booth and raised stage for live performances. For the seafood enthusiasts, the terrace has an exclusive Crudo Bar that serves a selection of raw fish Located in the heart of DIFC, this sophisticated haven is a must-visit this weekend.
    For more information visit chicnonna.com
    Cipriani

    With restaurants the globe over, Cipriani made its mark on Dubai in 2016. Serving exceptional Italian cuisine, the Cipriani brand has been a universally recognized icon of hospitality for four generations since Guiseppe Cipriani Senior first opened Harry’s Bar in Venice, back in May 1931. Open all around the world in New York, Venice, Moscow, Dubai and Abu Dhabi, Cipriani has made its impact in several countries as it continues to serve the finest. Located in Gate village number 10, DIFC and open daily from 12pm to 2am.
    For more information visit Cipriani.com
    L’Amo Bistro Del Mare

    Experience the outdoors at L’Amo Bistro Del Mare and enjoy a delicious meal and special beverages in the comfort of the open-air seating area. Equipped with comfortable seating, parasols for shade, and an outdoor bar, with a delicious selection of Italian dishes and drinks on the beautiful terrace, with stunning harbor views. With an array of options to choose from the menu, diners can indulge in a fresh Plateau Royale, L’Amo Bistro del Mare’s famous Seafood platter that includes Italian red prawns, Italian violet prawns, langoustine and more. Located at Dubai Harbour Yacht Club, it’s open from Monday to Friday 12pm to 3pm and 6pm to 11:30pm while on Saturday and Sunday from 12pm to 11:30pm.
    For more information visit lamorestaurant.com
    Il Ristorante – Niko Romito

    The restaurant showcases framed iconic Bulgari archive photographs and brand heritage images that recall over 130 years of Roman jewellery history. Known for using fresh Italian ingredients flown in from Italy, each dish is carefully created and takes guests on a gastronomic tour. The menu varies from dishes such as homemade pasta, Spaghetti e pomodoro and more. To end the dinner,visitors can opt for the tiramisu or one of the seasonal creations like the buffalo stracciatella cheese ice cream, balsamic vinegar and wild blackberries. Located at the Bulgari Hotel, this one-of-a-kind restaurant, can instantly elevate any evening.
    For more information visit bulgarihotels.com
    Pierchic

    Perhaps one of Dubai’s most iconic locations, Pierchic boasts unparalleled sea views, overlooking the Burj Al Arab. If you want a wow destination that makes an impact this is it. The food is also exceptional, as overseen by Head Chef Beatrice Segoni. Take a short stroll post-dinner across the water and you’ll feel like you’re on vacation. Located at Jumeirah Al Qasr, this restaurant is a must-visit.
    For more information visit jumeirah.com
    Alici

    Located on Bluewaters Island, Alici Dubai brings the heart of the Amalfi Coast to the Middle East. Specialising in seafood, but doing it the Italian way, the restaurant ensures the best quality in its produce and delivers nothing but the best in quality dining, both in experience and food with dishes ranging from the seared seabass fillet to the topinanbur cream.
    For more information visit alici.com
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Instagram @sofierichie More

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    6 of the best premium Ice-creams to try in Dubai for some midweek indulgence

    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    5 hours ago

    If you’re looking to beat the summer heat, Ice-creams are possibly the best option.
    We’re all softies for ice-cream and might always need a cheat treat occasionally.
    With a range of exciting flavours such as fresh Pistachio ice-creams and other vanilla flavours topped with 24kt gold carat for that premium experience, Dubai is home to a variety of exotic flavours to tantalize your tastebuds and make any meal even more exciting.
    So, if you’re looking for a delicious dessert after a meal or simply want to cool down after a long day, we’ve curated a guide of all the must-visit spots that have a plethora of delectable choices that your palate can’t simply get enough of.
    Saddle

    This exciting pop-up food experience promises innovatively delicious food. This UAE’s beloved homegrown brand is an extraordinary summer adventure during Dubai’s hot summer months. With the finest ingredients, this café is all about quality experience. Guests can indulge in the refreshing Pineapple Ice Cream and Coconut Ice Cream flavours, savour the creamy goodness of the Coconut.From Matcha ice creams to the extremely popular flavours such as Pistachio ice cream, this one-of-a-kind hotspot is definitely a must visit. Located at Al Wasl and Al Khawaneej, this venue is a must-visit.
    For more information visit saddle.com
    Massimo’s Gelato

    This famous restaurant is the first Italian artisanal gelato known for its creamy, light and explosive flavours. Like the authentic homemade Gelato, these flavours are produced fresh every day in the laboratory in small quantities with natural ingredients that melts in the mouth slowly releasing the flavour of each ingredient. With vegan options for its Dark Chocolate and pistachio, each flavour caters to a wide audience. It’s the first outlet in Dubai, which has its own motorcycle fleet and can bring Gelato to your home in just a few minutes with its traditional flavours. Located in Dubai Marina, City Walk and Mall of the Emirates, this venue has best Italian ingredients.
    For more information visit
    Godiva

    For a gourmet experience, Godiva brings its 100 years after being founded in Brussels with fine craftsmanship. Each spoonful of ice cream pairs the finest ingredients with the iconic chocolate experience. With flavours such as Midnight Swirl and with Dark Chocolate to innovative flavours such as Mint Medallion, customers are spoiled for choice. Located at City Walk, Dubai Festival City, Mall of the Emirates and The Outlet Village, the restaurant is situated around various spots in Dubai.
    For more information visit Godiva.com
    Mirzam

    Known as Dubai’s premium chocolate makers, guests can experience every aspect of the process at the factory and see it from roasting the cocoa beans to each bar being wrapped. From vegan options such as a floral hibiscus & creamy mango to the OG dark chocolate softie with an espresso shot, the options are endless. Located in Al Quoz 3, Mirzam is open daily from 8am to 11pm
    For more information visit mirzam.com
    Majama

    For all the vegan lovers, this much-loved ice-cream spot makes healthy treats that our 100 percent vegan, gluten-free and refined-sugar free. Handcrafted from scratch, the brand has a myriad of delectable flavours such as Count Macchiato, Judge Fudge, Loco Chococo, Choco(Lit) Dynamite and Mango Django. Created with a coconut base, this light ice-creams are the perfect option for a treat without feeling guilty. As a homegrown label in Dubai, it’s located in Cluster N, Jumeirah Lake Towers and is open daily from 10am to 10pm and is available for ordering on Deliveroo and Chat Food.
    For more information visit eatmajama.com
    Krema’s

    This newly launched venue has entered the ice cream space with its limited-edition bite-sized ice cream Melts to maximise the summer glory. The ice cream is crafted to perfection in collaboration with Two at Symphony, Krema’s sister concept,ice cream is crafted to perfection in collaboration with Two at Symphony, Krema’s sister concept, with a gorgeous venue at Dubai Mall’s Fashion Avenue, where guests can enjoy incredibly delightful desserts. Orders can be placed via Chatfood, Talabat, and Deliveroo and the incredible ice cream flavours will be delivered across Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Al Ain and are priced at AED 59 per tub containing 18-20 pieces. Krema’s Melts are also available for pick-up at Two at symphony at Dubai Mall.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Instagram @wendyswan More

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    The best premium Ice-creams to try in Dubai for some midweek indulgence

    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    4 hours ago

    If you’re looking to beat the summer heat, Ice-creams are possible the best option.
    We’re all softies for ice-cream and might always need a cheat treat occasionally.
    With a range of exciting flavours such as fresh Pistachio ice-creams and other vanilla flavours topped with 24kt gold carat for that premium experience.
    So, if you’re looking for a delicious dessert after a meal or simply want to cool down after a long day, we’ve curated a guide of all the must-visit spots that have a plethora of delectable choices that your palate can’t simply get enough of.
    Saddle

    This exciting pop-up food experience promises innovatively delicious food. This UAE’s beloved homegrown brand is an extraordinary summer adventure during Dubai’s hot summer months. With the finest ingredients, this café is all about quality experience. Guests can indulge in the refreshing Pineapple Ice Cream and Coconut Ice Cream flavours, savour the creamy goodness of the Coconut.From Matcha ice creams to the extremely popular flavours such as Pistachio ice cream, this one-of-a-kind hotspot is definitely a must visit. Located at Al Wasl and Al Khawaneej, this venue is a must-visit.
    For more information visit saddle.com
    Massimo’s Gelato

    This famous restaurant is the first Italian artisanal gelato known for its creamy, light and explosive flavours. Like the authentic homemade Gelato, these flavours are produced fresh every day in the laboratory in small quantities with natural ingredients that melts in the mouth slowly releasing the flavour of each ingredient. With vegan options for its Dark Chocolate and pistachio, each flavour caters to a wide audience. It’s the first outlet in Dubai, which has its own motorcycle fleet and can bring Gelato to your home in just a few minutes with its traditional flavours. Located in Dubai Marina, City Walk and Mall of the Emirates, this venue has best Italian ingredients.
    For more information visit
    Godiva

    For a gourmet experience, Godiva brings its 100 years after being founded in Brussels with fine craftsmanship. Each spoonful of ice cream pairs the finest ingredients with the iconic chocolate experience. With flavours such as Midnight Swirl and with Dark Chocolate to innovative flavours such as Mint Medallion, customers are spoiled for choice. Located at City Walk, Dubai Festival City, Mall of the Emirates and The Outlet Village, the restaurant is situated around various spots in Dubai.
    For more information visit Godiva.com
    Mirzam

    Known as Dubai’s premium chocolate makers, guests can experience every aspect of the process at the factory and see it from roasting the cocoa beans to each bar being wrapped. From vegan options such as a floral hibiscus & creamy mango to the OG dark chocolate softie with an espresso shot, the options are endless. Located in Al Quoz 3, Mirzam is open daily from 8am to 11pm
    For more information visit mirzam.com
    Majama

    For all the vegan lovers, this much-loved ice-cream spot makes healthy treats that our 100 percent vegan, gluten-free and refined-sugar free. Handcrafted from scratch, the brand has a myriad of delectable flavours such as Count Macchiato, Judge Fudge, Loco Chococo, Choco(Lit) Dynamite and Mango Django. Created with a coconut base, this light ice-creams are the perfect option for a treat without feeling guilty. As a homegrown label in Dubai, it’s located in Cluster N, Jumeirah Lake Towers and is open daily from 10am to 10pm and is available for ordering on Deliveroo and Chat Food.
    For more information visit eatmajama.com
    Krema’s

    This newly launched venue has entered the ice cream space with its limited-edition bite-sized ice cream Melts to maximise the summer glory. The ice cream is crafted to perfection in collaboration with Two at Symphony, Krema’s sister concept,ice cream is crafted to perfection in collaboration with Two at Symphony, Krema’s sister concept, with a gorgeous venue at Dubai Mall’s Fashion Avenue, where guests can enjoy incredibly delightful desserts. Orders can be placed via Chatfood, Talabat, and Deliveroo and the incredible ice cream flavours will be delivered across Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Al Ain and are priced at AED 59 per tub containing 18-20 pieces. Krema’s Melts are also available for pick-up at Two at symphony at Dubai Mall.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Twitter @dualipa More

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    Experience an Italian summer with Il Borro’s culinary offerings this summer

    Life

    by Amy Sessions
    52 mins ago

    Il Borro takes us on a culinary journey, so you can enjoy the best of Italy even ifyou’re not travelling this summer.
    The Vibe
    In keeping with the Ferragamo family and the Il Borro estate’s vision to promote biodiversity, organic farming, and to deliver a true farm-to-table concept, Il Borro Tuscan Bistro Dubai translates these beliefs through an authentic dining experience in an elegant, refined atmosphere.
    To celebrate Il Borro’s 30 year anniversary, Chef Stefano Giovannetti (IlBorro, Dubai) and Chef Andrea Campani (Il Borro, Tuscany) have combined forces to deliver a menu using ingredients from the Tuscan estate itself to enable us to enjoy the best of organic Italian faire without having to travel. The hero dishes are modern interpretation of Tuscan classics, staying true to sourcing quality ingredients and where necessary accompanied by Il Borro’s own products such as the organic extra virgin olive oil, honey, and selectedvegetables from Il Borro’s organic farm, “Orto del Borro”.
    The Hero Dishes
    ∙ Pappa al pomodoro Tuscan bread, organic plum tomato, garlic, red onion, basil∙ Insalata di carciofi e Caciocavallo Artichoke salad, baby gem leaves, walnuts, lemon dressing, Caciocavallo cheese∙ Branzino al sale Mediterranean Sea bass, herb salted crust, roasted rosemary baby potatoes∙ Peposo dell’ImprunetaTraditional Tuscan braised beef, tomato and black pepper sauce, crunchy rosemary polenta

    July/August’s – The Summer Escape Issue with Tania Santos Silva – Download Now
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    Images: Supplied More

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    How I got my job… as Co-Founder of this Dubai-based artisanal Italian restaurant

    Lifestyle

    by Sarah Joseph
    1 hour ago

    Welcome to the Emirates Woman weekly series ‘How I got my job as…’ where we speak to some incredible entrepreneurs both based in the UAE and globally to find out about their career paths that led them to where they are now; what their daily routines look like; the advice they’d give to those starting out; and the hurdles they’ve had to overcome.
    This week we chat with Mohamed Jamal Alshamsi, Co-Founder and CEO of Monno, which is home to artisanal Italian food using the finest ingredients.
    This exclusive Italian haven brings the most cherished culinary traditions to the forefront with recipes passed down through generations. From Neapolitan pizzas to decedent desserts such as tiramisus, each dish is crafted to perfection as a true taste of Italy.
    Emirates Woman sat down with the brand’s founder to learn about his career path and how he converted his love for food into a full-time business.
    What was your favourite subject at school?
    In school, I mostly enjoyed business studies.

    What was your first job?
    I studied to become a pilot, so that was my first job and is still what I do today – as well as being a first-time restauranteur with the opening of Monno.
    How long have you lived in Dubai?
    I am Emirati and was born and raised in the UAE.
    What inspired you to launch Monno Ristorante?
    Me and my business partner – the co-founder of Monno Hamad Hamad Abdelsalam, who is also a pilot, also shares a deep passion for Italy. Through flying there very regularly, we both developed a love for the country’s food and culture and noticed that there is a huge lack of quality and authentic restaurants in Dubai that fit in the casual Italian dining sector, so we decided to establish Monno.
    Talk us through the inspiration being your restaurant and its menu.
    At Monno, we focus on quality, value for money and authenticity. Fresh and natural ingredients imported from Italy are carefully calibrated and prepared, to deliver a nostalgic journey of the country’s most cherished culinary traditions. From exclusively using San Marzano tomatoes to importing artisanal Italian cheeses and olive oils for handmade pasta and genuine Neapolitan pizzas, our menu also features a range of antipasti, main courses and traditional desserts. Inside the restaurant, expect interiors and an ambiance inspired by that of a classic Trattoria found on the back streets of quaint towns in Italy.

    What are the key elements of your role?
    The key elements of my role are handling all things related to the food and beverage – so working with our chef to create the menus, food tastings, the development of special menus and more. I also handle the marketing and PR side of the business, while my partner, Hamad is our Chief Financial Officer and handles all things related to finance and accounting, then for general operational requirements, we do everything together.
    Talk us through your daily routine.
    As a pilot, my daily routine depends on my flight schedule that week. If I’m flying that day, I go to work and complete my pre-flight procedures then take to the sky, however, if I’m not, my days are spent at Monno and with my family and friends.
    What advice do you have for anyone looking to follow in the same footsteps of opening a restaurant in Dubai?
    First and the most important advice is to think of something special and unique, something new that no one in Dubai has thought of before. Once you have a unique idea, work to execute it well.
    What is the best piece of advice you ever received?
    The best advice I ever received and believe in is simply ‘don’t rush’. Take things slowly and think twice before making your move, it will pay off in the long run.
    And what is the worst?
    The worst was to always be spontaneous and do things on the spot. I believe this connects to my best piece of advice, which is not to rush. I believe good things take time and we should think wisely before acting.

    What has been the biggest challenge you had to overcome when opening a restaurant in Dubai?
    The biggest challenge was when our opening fell close to the end of the pandemic. It was a huge challenge as there were so many restrictions in place at the time, so we could only accommodate a small number of guests at any given time, which is hardly what any new restaurant wants. We thankfully made it through that challenging time.
    What are the future plans for your brand, Monno?
    At Monno, we’re working on a couple of collaborations, which we will be able to announce in the coming months. We’re also working on an exciting pop-up for Monno that we hope to launch early next year. Watch this space!
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
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    Inside the chicest new addition to the DIFC dining scene

    Lifestyle

    by Sarah Joseph
    36 seconds ago

    A luxe new DIFC restaurant has opened its doors just in time for peak season in Dubai.
    After months of planning in the pipeline, Italian restaurant Chic Nonna is finally open to the public.
    With state-of-the-art interiors and a high-quality menu, the restaurant is complete with an open-plan kitchen, the largest wine cellar in the region and a sophisticated chef’s table.
    Paying homage to rich Italian traditions, this two-storey gourmet osteria’s menu is carefully curated by the culinary team including head chef, Illaria Zamperlin.
    Blending tradition with innovation, there’s a dish to suit each and every guest’s tastebuds. Whether topped with fresh black truffle shavings or created with a homemade sauce, each spoonful transports visitors to a gorgeous Italian Riviera.
    Designed to take relaxation to the next level, the intimate Cigar Lounge is the perfect spot for post-meal relaxation with unending views of Dubai’s scintillating skyline. With the largest wine cellar in the city with over 4,000 bottles and 900 labels, this modern venue offers the perfect setting to unwind.
    To create an inviting ambience, the space has warm cosy interiors reminiscent of a traditional Italian home. To make any visit even more memorable the venue offers engaging live entertainment with a striking DJ booth and raised stage for live performances.
    For the seafood enthusiasts, the terrace has an exclusive Crudo Bar that serves a selection of raw fish, Calvisius caviar and more to ensure guests immerse in the complete experience from start to finish.
    Spearheaded by the leading hospitality company, Mine & Yours Group, this all-new Italian concept effortlessly blends into Dubai’s diverse culinary offerings.
    Take a look inside the newest addition to the DIFC dining scene.

    For more information visit chicnonna.com
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    Images: Supplied More