Italian cuisine is renowned for its rich flavors, fresh ingredients, and comforting dishes. If you’re looking for an authentic Italian dining experience, then you’re in luck, as there are many excellent Italian restaurants to choose from in Dubai.
Whether you’re in the mood for a fancy, fine-dining experience or a casual, budget-friendly meal, there is an Italian restaurant for everyone. With so many options available, it’s easy to find a great Italian restaurant near you.
In this article, we’ll explore some of the best Italian restaurants in Dubai, including some affordable options that won’t break the bank. So, get ready to indulge in some mouth-watering pasta, pizza, and other classic Italian dishes.
1. Alici
Alici is an Italian restaurant located on Bluewaters Island in Dubai, offering a chic and romantic Amalfi Coast-inspired ambiance. The interiors are decorated with contemporary cream design complemented by art and pottery hand-painted by ‘The Anchovy Man’.
The extensive menu includes a range of seafood dishes with a Southern Italian flair, including traditional Italian favourites like gamberi alla griglia and cacciucco. The brunch is highly recommended and offers a raw selection of local Dibba Bay oysters, tuna tartare, and fresh seabass.
Alici is considered one of the best Italian restaurants in Dubai, thanks to the chefs who use fresh seafood catches and quality ingredients to give old classics a modern twist, including handmade pasta.
The location is perfect for a date night or lazy lunch, overlooking the sea and Jumeirah Beach Residences. With a focus on seafood, the restaurant lives up to its name, which means anchovy in Italian.
Alici offers a true taste of Southern Italy, making it a must-visit destination for foodies and Italian cuisine lovers.
2. Il Borro Tuscan Bistro
Il Borro, located in Jumeirah Al Naseem, is a popular Italian restaurant in Dubai that offers authentic Italian cuisine made with Italian-sourced products. The restaurant, which is part of a Tuscan estate with over a thousand years of history, has won multiple awards for its food and service.
Its dedication to simplicity and authenticity is evident in every dish, from homemade recipes that celebrate organic produce to carefully curated wines that represent Tuscan grape varieties. Although its interiors and terrace are elegant and contemporary, Il Borro’s main focus is on the quality of its food, which is sophisticated yet unstuffy.
Popular dishes include the classic Italian ossobuco, a slow-braised veal shank served with creamy mash. The restaurant is the brainchild of Ferruccio Ferragamo, son of Salvatore Ferragamo, and has been a favorite among Dubai’s gourmands since it opened in 2017.
3. Duomo
Duomo, the Italian restaurant at The Dubai EDITION, offers a unique dining experience with its striking interiors and hidden garden terrace. The restaurant’s 15-meter high ceiling, reminiscent of an Italian cathedral, serves as a canvas for digital art that immerses guests in a multi-sensory experience.
Duomo’s menu draws inspiration from southern Italy and features a selection of high-quality ingredients, homemade pasta, authentic Neapolitan pizzas, and truffle dishes. The restaurant’s terrace, surrounded by aged olive trees in Italian Sienna clay and terracotta pots, provides a serene setting for outdoor dining in Downtown Dubai, with the impressive LED show of the Burj Khalifa as a backdrop.
Duomo offers far more than a mere degustation experience, with its unique blend of Italian architecture and contemporary digital art, creating an unforgettable dining experience.
4. LPM Restaurant & Bar
LPM is a French establishment, however, its Italian and Mediterranean dishes are so exceptional that it is included in the best Italian restaurants in Dubai list. LPM offers classic Italian dishes made with the freshest ingredients and prepared to perfection.
The burrata with cherry tomatoes and basil and the gnocchi in cherry tomato sauce are two standout dishes that provide a traditional and comforting taste.
In addition, the marinated grilled lamb cutlets with aubergine caviar are a must-try, and it is recommended to order them at medium doneness to enjoy the tender and satisfying taste.
5. Armani Ristorante
Armani Ristorante is a luxurious Italian restaurant located in the Armani Hotel within the iconic Burj Khalifa in Downtown Dubai. The restaurant offers modern and opulent Italian cuisine with a strong emphasis on presentation, providing an upscale dining experience that comes at a higher price point.
The lavish and contemporary dishes are carefully prepared to ensure they are visually stunning, with plating that is just as important as taste. Being situated in one of the most prestigious areas of Dubai, the Armani Ristorante attracts a sophisticated clientele who are willing to pay a premium for the high-quality food, exceptional service, and stunning views of the city that are on offer.
6. Cipriani
Cipriani’s Dubai flagship, located in the DIFC Gate Village, is a popular destination among celebrities and food enthusiasts. The menu features classic Italian dishes such as veal Milanese, homemade gnocchi, and desserts like cannoli alla siciliana and tiramisu. It’s recommended to make reservations well in advance, as seats at this legendary Italian institution are highly sought after.
7. Bella
Bella’s Restaurant & Lounge is a new Italian restaurant located on the 20th floor of the Grand Millennium Hotel in Business Bay, Dubai. This stylish eatery offers an ultra-chic loft-like lounge area and a dining room and bar where patrons can enjoy delicious Italian cuisine while taking in breathtaking views of the city skyline.
One of the standout features of Bella’s is its fully-retractable glass ceiling, which allows diners to gaze up at the night sky while enjoying their meal. The atmosphere is sophisticated and stylish, making it a great spot for a romantic dinner or a night out with friends.
With its prime location in Business Bay and stunning views, Bella’s is sure to become a popular destination for those seeking a memorable dining experience in Dubai.
8. Scalini
Scalini is an Italian restaurant located on the ground floor of the Restaurant Village at Jumeirah Four Seasons in Dubai. Originally from London, the restaurant has quickly become one of the top Italian eateries in the city.
The cozy interior is adorned with photos of celebrities who have frequented the London location, while the outdoor terrace is surrounded by leafy foliage and twinkling fairy lights. The staff at Scalini are the real stars of the show, providing a refreshingly modern take on fine dining while serving up authentic Italian dishes such as beef carpaccio and creamy burrata.
Head chef Pasquale Rufino curates a seasonal menu full of flavour and beautifully presented dishes, with generous portions that are sure to satisfy.
The restaurant’s Amalfi-inspired terrace and lemon tree add to the stunning ambience of the location. For those seeking a memorable Italian dining experience in Dubai, Scalini is a must-visit destination.
9. Bice Mare Restaurant
Bice Mare is a unique Italian restaurant located on the second level of Souk Al Bahar in Downtown Burj Khalifa, Dubai. What sets Bice Mare apart from other Italian restaurants is its enviable location, offering stunning views of the Dubai Fountain.
The restaurant has a big focus on seafood and handmade pastas, and the menu changes seasonally to keep things fresh and exciting for patrons. Dishes are designed to be shared, making it an excellent spot for a group outing or a romantic date.
The interior of the restaurant is chic and stylish, providing a welcoming atmosphere for diners. The combination of breathtaking views, delectable Italian cuisine, and a comfortable setting makes Bice Mare a must-visit destination for those seeking a unique and memorable dining experience in Dubai.
10. Marea
Marea, an acclaimed Italian restaurant from New York City, has established a new outpost in Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) that has exceeded expectations and ranked among the top ten Italian restaurants in Dubai.
The restaurant features muted neutrals, lofty ceilings, and crisp white tablecloths that exude an air of refinement. The menu is generous and curated by the flagship venue’s head chef, offering a mix of traditional Italian dishes and signature seafood creations.
The restaurant’s atmosphere is sophisticated, making it ideal for special occasions or a romantic night out. With its reputation and high-quality offerings, Marea has become a must-visit destination for those seeking an exceptional Italian dining experience in Dubai.