An appetite for art

Walking into the Piccolo Mondo Café is like waltzing through an art display. The seating arrangement just outside the eatery is dotted with a collection of tasteful artwork statues, clocks and paintings. And this is just a glimpse of what treasures lie inside. The sign at the entrance reads clearly: 'All art is for sale'.

"Indeed it is!" smiles the owner of the treasure trove, Zaki Al Obaidi, an ardent traveller from Iraq. He is proud to have set up this unique art bay tucked away in the Italian cluster of International City in Dubai.

"The café has a fan following from all parts of the emirates. People frequent the place not just for the lingering class it has but also for its variety. It feeds those with an appetite for both food and art," he says.

In the last 45 years, Al Obaidi has travelled all over the world. "Since childhood, antiques have been a passion of mine. During my travels, I would buy and sell antiques. Each destination would mean a discovery of new culture and art form. I would visit Italian museums, flee markets and local art bazaars to understand the art and in turn, understand an aspect of the culture and its people.

"I made friends with many interesting people who expanded not only my interest, but also my business. They keep in touch with me and together we trade creative pieces. Slowly, my collection grew and I wanted to share this art with other enthusiasts. So, when it was time to decorate the restaurant that I was setting up here in Dubai, I decided to incorporate the artwork I had collected over the years."

The concept was new to the area and there is nothing like it in close proximity. "People first thought it was a plain art gallery but steadily word spread and it developed into a favourite hangout for many. There is something rustic yet divine about the atmosphere that captures the visitor's attention," explains Al Obaidi.

At the cafe, guests are served Italian, Continental, Thai and Lebanese cusines. Appetisers and sheesha are the most popular items here. People enjoy the ambience and the finger food at leisure; some buy the art on display after mulling over pieces on display while enjoying their meal. He confirms: "Dubai is a very happening place. People here have rich tastes and they appreciate that which is new and fresh. In my shop, I have not just timeless antiques such as gramophones and marble sculptures but also some interesting paintings, chimes and water fountains. It's all about variety. My intention in creating the cafe was to offer people a place to stop a while, absorb art and experience good food. It opens doors to new ideas, colours and textures. There is variety not just in what you see but also in what you can eat. Each smile that I receive when a guest walks into the shop reassures me that my concept has been appreciated.

"I find myself constantly seeking beauty. The cafe gave me the means to mix two of my greatest passions in life food and art. A warm welcome, beautiful music, a friendly atmosphere, an extensive menu, prompt service all delivered with a touch of art... what more can one wish for?" he asks.

Inspired by international culture, the Piccolo Mondo Café feeds the heart. It sparks a love for the past. "You also can smell history in any corner. It is a real place. I think it's original and you get your value for money and time," adds Al Obaidi. "Last year, an American businessman visited the shop. He was so impressed with the idea that he proposed a joint venture in the US. We will hopefully open a franchise in Beverly Hills and another in the district of Newport. One thing leads to another, this is what I believe. If you trust the journey, each stop will be worth the visit!"