Pushpitha Wijesinghe
Home to some of the finest restaurants in Dubai, Abu Dhabi is also an Italian food lover's heartland in the desert. From chic cafes to top dining hubs the city's best Italian hotspots are below.
Known for its classic interiors and rustic chic feel Sevilo's is one of the most affordable Italian restaurants in Abu Dhabi. Striking a balance between great prices and fantastic culinary offerings Sevilo's specialties include tried and true Italian classics. Known for the tasteful presentation of its dishes this romantic diner known for its seafood fare is the best place to enjoy a hearty Italian meal with a close group of friends.
Tipped to be one of the finest Sir Bani Yas Island Restaurants for Italian food connoisseurs this iconic Italian eatery located in the Anantara Sir Bani Yas Island Al Sahel Villa Resort, Abu Dhabi is another must-dine highlight. Open from breakfast to dinner the Italia inspired decor of the venue is complimented by the breathtaking ocean views at every turn. Known for its stunning array of salads and scrumptious desserts some of the must try menu items at Olio include Roasted black cod fillet, Fregola sarda con pesce and Fregola Sarda pearl pasta while the Lattuga romana liquida and conventional Tiramisu also leave one begging for more.
Having won numerous awards including the Best Italian restaurant title at Time Out Abu Dhabi Restaurant Awards 2012 Porto Bello is another staple stopover for Italian food fanatics touring the city's best eateries. Offering diners a truly extensive menu some of the hot pick favourites at Porto Bello include classic and traditional Italian fare such as risotto, pizza and pastas while luxurious delicacies topped with caviar and foie gras are also part of the menu which also includes some staples from the Italian haute cuisine catalogue. Live music also adds to the venue's friendly ambience of this preferred dinning hub for all things Italian.
Ideal for al fresco dinning fans in search of a cosy nook to enjoy mozzarella caprese salads Pappagallo is known for its eclectic interiors with white linen accents. Italian favourites such as risotto and pastas are also found here along with gooey pizzas that are baked the traditional way. Complemented with traditional and mouth-watering toppings the pizzas aren't the only dish to write home about when dining in Pappagallo as the chocolate gelato is simply divine.
A regular for local Italian food lovers in Abu Dhabi visitors should not miss the chance to dine at Biancorosso. In spite of its nondescript location Biancorosso is known for its warm hospitality with fried dough balls offered on arrival as a complimentary snack before the meal arrives. Ideal for a hearty lunch the tranquil atmosphere of this red interior restaurant is also known for its excellent service and attention to detail.
Renowned for its decidedly Italian decor Frankie's is a cosy Italian diner that serves popular Italian dishes in a warm and lively atmosphere. With an extensive menu that includes an array of pastas and pizzas some of the most coveted items on Frankie's menu include osso bucco served with saffron risotto drenched in sauce while its decadent Tiramisu is nothing to scoff at either.
