Despite its illustrious reputation across the globe, I’ve never been a fan of Carluccio’s that is until I visited the branch in Eastern Mangroves Promenade.
Décor
Light and airy with quaint pots of herbs to add some colour (and garnish), the restaurant resembles a modern trattoria bringing the best of Italian hospitality that we all love, to the UAE capital.
Ambience
With the authentic décor and food, combined with its location next to the peaceful mangroves, it’s easy to forget that you are in the UAE. As such there is an exciting and laid-back vibe that one would associate with feeling while on holiday. You could literally while away the hours here.
Food
It’s an Italian eatery so there is an onus on quality pastas and pizzas. The focaccia bread starter is a testament to the authenticity of the dishes – delicious and plentiful. You seriously need to pace yourself. We recommend sharing the starter to save room for the subsequent courses.
As well as the bread the bresaola and olives are also at the top of our must-try list.
For mains, it’s easy to see why the meatballs are a signature dish. Cooked to perfection – meatballs have a tendency to be too dry – and smothered in a rich, but not too heavy tomato sauce, we give it a nine out of 10. Not a meat fan? Opt for the spinach balls and spaghetti. While there is an abundance of garlic in this delectable dish, it’s affect on the palate is worth it. Seafood lovers will delight in the jumbo prawns, which are gigantic and packed with flavour. Alternatively the seafood risotto is a gluttonous treat.
The pastries and desserts are what make Carluccio’s so famous. From the deep cheesecake to the rich tiramisu, no matter how full you feel you can’t leave without sampling the sweet goods.
Why bother?
For affordable and authentic Italian food.
Go For
The holiday feel. With typical Italian pantry goods, from the fruity olive oil to the juicy olives and naughty truffles, on sale in the restaurant, you can also take the taste of the Mediterranean home with you.
The Details
Carluccio’s | Eastern Mangroves Promenade | Abu Dhabi | (02) 6412231
