Dubai: If you fancy authentic Italian fare, the newly opened Marco’s Italian Kitchen in Wafi Mall is worth a visit. With simple yet sleek interiors, the place has just the right ambience to get one in the mood to tuck into some lip-smacking delicacies which I got to sample recently.
As I looked at the menu I searched for something which I had never tasted before and settled for insalata di polipo, an octopus salad with taggiasche olives and red onions. Despite my initial hesitation, I must say, my first ever bite of octopus went down pretty well. The pieces were tender and I loved the taste. In fact I look forward to having some more in future.
Next I moved on to pasta and risotto without which no Italian meal is complete. The gnocchi, a pasta which comprised dumplings with gorgonzola cheese and chopped walnuts was quite delightful, but the risotto al funghi, made of carnaroli rice and porcini mushrooms, was probably the best risotto I have ever had.
The main course, Costata Con Osso, deserves a special mention. One of the signature dishes of the restaurant, the bone-in eye steak is made of meat which has been preserved for 45 days.
Next up were the pizzas. They turned out to be the best part of the meal and I recommend the Napoli and Marco’s. The Napoli is topped with san marzapan tomatoes, mozzarella fior de latte, anchovies, olives, chilli and oregano. The Marco’s on the other hand is topped with san marzano tomatoes, mozzarella fior di latte, smoked duck breast, arugula and truffle oil. Both preparations are sure to satisfy any pizza lover.
Last but not least, the desserts here are a special attraction. You mustn’t walk away without trying the tiramisu. If you are, however, not too fond of the strong taste of coffee, you can go for the torta di mele, a traditional Italian apple cake, served with vanilla ice cream to bring the meal to a sweet end.
DETAILS:
Meal for two: Dh360
Venue: Wafi Pyramid, Wafi Mall
Contact: 04-324 4777
Timings: 12pm-3pm, 7pm-12am
Ratings (out of 5):
Ambience: 5
Food: 4
Price: 4
Overall: 4
We recommend: Napoli pizza, insalata di polipo (octpus salad), tiramisu
