Finding the best pasta in Abu Dhabi can be a delightful yet challenging quest for food lovers. The city is home to several exceptional Italian restaurants, each offering unique flavors, authentic recipes, and expertly crafted pasta dishes. From rich and creamy carbonara to fresh, handmade tagliatelle, these restaurants showcase the finest of Italian cuisine. Whether you’re craving a classic dish or a modern twist, Abu Dhabi’s dining scene has something to satisfy every palate. Below, we explore some of the top spots where you can indulge in the most exquisite pasta in the city.
VILLA TOSCANA
Villa Toscana, nestled within The St. Regis Abu Dhabi, offers an authentic Italian dining experience. The restaurant’s ambiance mirrors a Tuscan villa, providing a warm and inviting atmosphere. Specializing in regional Italian specialties from Tuscany, Umbria, and Emilia-Romagna, the menu features handcrafted dishes. Notably, the restaurant imports cheeses, prosciutto, cold cuts, and salamis, emphasizing quality. The menu evolves several times a year, incorporating monthly food festivals and pairing events. This approach allows the chef to utilize seasonal produce, ensuring dishes are at their flavorful peak. Signature offerings include lobster spaghetti and wood-fired pizzas. The wine list complements the menu, featuring selections from various Italian regions.
Service is attentive, with staff knowledgeable about the menu and wine pairings. The elegant setting makes it suitable for romantic dinners or business meetings. Private dining options are available for special occasions. The restaurant has received accolades, including a 5.0 rating on Tripadvisor, ranking #15 out of 2,494 restaurants in Abu Dhabi. Guests consistently praise the quality of food and exceptional service. Reservations are recommended, especially during peak dining hours. Dress code is smart casual, aligning with the restaurant’s refined atmosphere.
Villa Toscana provides valet parking for guests’ convenience. Operating hours are from 12:00 PM to 11:00 PM daily. For those seeking an authentic Italian culinary journey in Abu Dhabi, Villa Toscana stands out as a premier destination.
VERSO
Located within the Grand Hyatt Abu Dhabi, Verso brings a slice of Italy to the UAE capital. The restaurant emphasizes fresh ingredients, crafting dishes that are both simple and flavorful. Their Spaghetti Carbonara stands out, featuring a creamy sauce complemented by crispy pancetta. The Fettuccine Alfredo is another favorite, known for its rich and velvety texture. Verso’s casual yet modern setting makes it suitable for family gatherings and friendly meet-ups. The open kitchen concept allows diners to witness the culinary magic firsthand, adding an interactive element to the dining experience.
With a commitment to authenticity, Verso ensures each dish resonates with traditional Italian flavors. The restaurant has received positive reviews, with a 5.0 rating on Tripadvisor, ranking #94 out of 2,493 restaurants in Abu Dhabi. Guests appreciate the quality of food and the friendly service. Reservations are recommended, especially during weekends. Verso operates from 12:00 PM to 11:00 PM daily, offering both lunch and dinner services. For those seeking a genuine Italian dining experience in Abu Dhabi, Verso is a noteworthy choice.
SACCI
Sacci, located within The Westin Abu Dhabi Golf Resort & Spa, is an authentic family-style Italian trattoria that pays tribute to the rich heritage of Italian cuisine and dining culture. The restaurant’s ambiance combines the flavors of childhood and the aromas of summer at the family terrazza, providing a warm and inviting atmosphere. Guests can savor traditional, homemade Italian food with a modern touch, with gluten-free options also available. Sacci can host large groups for business meetings and special occasions, with prior reservations required for family and corporate events. The restaurant offers al fresco dining, allowing guests to enjoy their meals outdoors. The dress code is smart casual, and valet parking is available for guests’ convenience.
Sacci’s menu features a variety of Italian dishes, including handmade pastas and wood-fired pizzas, prepared with fresh, high-quality ingredients. The restaurant’s wine list includes selections from various Italian regions, carefully chosen to complement the menu. Service at Sacci is attentive and professional, with staff knowledgeable about the menu and wine pairings. The restaurant has received positive reviews for its authentic cuisine and welcoming atmosphere. Reservations are recommended, especially during peak dining hours. Sacci operates daily, offering both lunch and dinner services. For those seeking a genuine Italian dining experience in Abu Dhabi, Sacci is a noteworthy choice.
IL FORNO
Il Forno is renowned for its dedication to classic Italian cooking, offering a cozy and family-friendly environment across multiple locations in Abu Dhabi. The restaurant’s interior is designed to evoke the charm of a traditional Italian trattoria, with checkered tablecloths and rustic décor elements. Il Forno’s menu boasts a variety of pasta dishes, each prepared with care and authenticity. The Penne Arrabbiata is a popular choice, combining perfectly cooked penne with a spicy tomato sauce, garlic, and fresh herbs, delivering a delightful kick for spice enthusiasts. Another highlight is their Lasagna Bolognese, featuring layers of tender pasta intermingled with rich meat sauce and creamy béchamel, baked to perfection with a golden cheese crust.
Il Forno’s commitment to using fresh, high-quality ingredients ensures a satisfying meal that stays true to Italian culinary principles. The casual ambiance makes it a great spot for both quick bites and leisurely dinners, accommodating various dining preferences. With multiple locations across Abu Dhabi, including in popular malls and shopping districts, Il Forno is accessible for those craving authentic Italian flavors without the need for extensive travel. The restaurant also offers a selection of pizzas, salads, and desserts, providing a comprehensive Italian dining experience.
Service is prompt and friendly, with staff striving to make each visit pleasant and enjoyable. Il Forno has received positive feedback for its consistent quality and value for money, making it a go-to spot for many residents and visitors. For those seeking a reliable and hearty pasta meal in Abu Dhabi, Il Forno stands as a commendable option that delivers on taste and tradition.
SPACCANAPOLI RISTORANTE
Situated in the heart of Abu Dhabi, Spaccanapoli Ristorante offers a rustic trattoria charm that transports diners straight to the streets of Naples. The restaurant’s name pays homage to the famous Spaccanapoli street in Naples, known for its vibrant culture and culinary heritage. Known for its one-meter-long pizzas, Spaccanapoli also excels in pasta offerings that showcase the richness of Italian cuisine. The Seafood Linguine is a must-try, brimming with fresh seafood such as mussels, clams, and prawns, all tossed in a tangy tomato base infused with white wine and garlic, creating a harmonious blend of flavors.
The cozy bar area complements the dining experience, offering a selection of Italian wines and handcrafted cocktails to pair with the meal. Spaccanapoli’s friendly staff are attentive and well-versed in the menu, ensuring guests have a seamless and enjoyable dining experience. For those with dietary preferences, the restaurant provides vegetarian pasta options and customizable dishes upon request. The ambiance is lively yet intimate, making it a great spot for casual dining, date nights, or family gatherings. Spaccanapoli also offers outdoor seating, allowing guests to enjoy their meal while taking in the views of Abu Dhabi’s skyline. With its authentic recipes and traditional preparation methods, the restaurant has built a strong reputation among Italian food lovers.
The pasta dishes are served in generous portions, ensuring a fulfilling and satisfying meal. Desserts such as Tiramisu and Panna Cotta provide the perfect sweet ending to the meal. Reservations are advisable, particularly during weekends, as the restaurant tends to get busy. The dress code is smart casual, aligning with the restaurant’s stylish yet relaxed atmosphere. Spaccanapoli Ristorante is open daily for lunch and dinner, offering flexible dining hours for guests.
TALEA BY ANTONIO GUIDA
Talea by Antonio Guida is a Michelin-starred Italian restaurant located in Abu Dhabi. The establishment is renowned for its authentic Italian cuisine, crafted under the guidance of acclaimed chef Antonio Guida. The menu features a variety of traditional dishes, each prepared with high-quality ingredients to ensure an exceptional dining experience. Signature pasta offerings include the classic Spaghetti alla Carbonara and the rich Tagliatelle al Ragù. The restaurant’s ambiance is elegant yet inviting, making it suitable for both intimate dinners and business gatherings. The interior design reflects a blend of modern aesthetics with traditional Italian elements, creating a warm and sophisticated atmosphere.
Service at Talea is attentive and personalized, with staff well-versed in the nuances of Italian cuisine and wine pairings. The wine list is extensive, featuring selections from various regions of Italy, allowing guests to complement their meals perfectly. Reservations are highly recommended, especially during peak dining hours, to secure a table at this esteemed venue. The dress code is smart casual, aligning with the restaurant’s refined setting. Operating hours are from 12:00 PM to 11:00 PM daily, accommodating both lunch and dinner patrons.
