Abu Dhabi: Amalfi at Le Royal Meridien can easily be considered one of the best fine dining Italian restaurants in town.
One of the most popular Italian eateries in the capital, Amalfi has now gone in for a design overhaul and turned into a contemporary destination, but without compromising the rustic elements of a true Italian venue.
The interior now looks suave and sophisticated in hues of black and grey. The cluster of lights hanging over the open kitchen and tables lends a distinctively chick look.
The dining area is well spaced out and has some cozy corners for those seeking privacy. The best thing is that the settings are ideal for both business as well intimate dinners.
Inspired by Italy’s famous Amalfi coast, the restaurant boasts traditional cuisine and a fine selection of vintage beverages.
The decor is stylish and chic, and has an ambient atmosphere. There is a good selection of traditional dishes, homemade pasta, wood-fired oven-baked pizza and freshly baked bread.
One of the highlights is a live pizza and antipasto counter. Pizza fans will love this counter. Their wood oven pizza is a must-have. The pizza comes with a variety of toppings and is a gourmet experience in itself. Add interactive dining with the Chef de Cuisine, Pascal Sfara, and your evening becomes a memorable Italian experience.
The place has an extensive selection of fine Italian cheeses that come with a special, reduced balsamic vinegar which is sweeter than chocolate sauce.
The chef informed me that even strawberries would taste better if dipped in this vinegar. I went for Parmigiano Reggiano rocks with celery and croutons. It is a mouth watering selection.
Equally fascinating was the corn-fed, free range chicken sauted with broccolini, raspberry and roasted bell pepper sauce.
The chicken was succulent and the roasted bell pepper sauce and raspberry give it an exotic flavour. You should also try out their wide range of pasta selections that come with some of the freshest ingredients.
For the sweet ending, I had the white chocolate panna cota with saffron and orange blossom. You can’t say whether it is the presentation or the taste that wins you over.
But all in all, whether you’re searching for a scrumptious meal or a lavish lunch, Amalfi is definitely all things exceptionally Italian.
Details
Meal for two: Dh200-300 (approximately)
Location: Le Royal Meridien, Abu Dhabi Timings: 12pm–3pm, 7pm-11pm
For bookings: 02-674 2020
