La dolce vita Why travel to Italy for delicious pizza, pasta and risotto when you can sample it right here in Abu Dhabi?
Q One of the most loved cuisines, Italian food has crossed borders the world over. No longer confined to Naples, Rome and Bologna, these cities’ traditional dishes are now a regular highlight on menus across the globe. While pizza and pasta are the best-known examples of Italian cuisine, there’s so much more to discover. Meals usually start with bruschetta and beef carpaccio, before moving on to the primi piatti (usually pasta) and then secondi piatti (main course), which can include a choice of anything from risotto to veal. Italy is also known for its beautifully rich and full-flavoured desserts. Gelati and tiramisu may be the most famous, but don’t be afraid to sample other lesser known treats. Abu Dhabi may not spring to mind as a destination for Italian food lovers, but it definitely has its share of great Italian restaurants. So great is the variety that it is hard to narrow it down to just a few favourites. Yas Island is home to two Italian restaurants, each with its own charm and character. Amici at the Yas Viceroy Abu Dhabi hotel is a fine-dining concept with views of the Formula One racetrack and marina, while Filini at the Radisson Blu Abu Dhabi Yas Island offers authentic cuisine with an inviting atmosphere and views over the Arabian Gulf and Yas Links golf course. A favourite among residents and visitors alike is Mezzaluna at Emirates Palace. Its premier location makes it a winner every time, but it's the deliciously authentic cuisine and five-star environment that sets this restaurant apart. Further along the Corniche, BiCE at the Hilton Abu Dhabi has kept the city well fed for years. Its delightful location and mouthwatering cuisine keep diners coming back for more. Read on for our pick of the best...
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24/06/2012 18:00