Whether you’re staying at this ultra-modern luxury hotel on the edge of the Arabian Gulf or just heading there to dine at one of the six restaurants, you’ll find a warm welcome. The Four Seasons Hotel Abu Dhabi is an ideal spot in which to while away a few hours over lunch, dinner or drinks thanks to its enviable waterside location and variety of dining options, including Italian restaurant Cafe Milano.
Overseen by Chef Franco Sangiacomo, Cafe Milano offers an authentic taste of Italy in Abu Dhabi. Chef Sangiacomo's culinary style could be defined as simple yet passionate since he uses novel techniques alongside those he learned from his grandmother and is known for letting great-tasting ingredients speak for themselves. Reserve a table in the bright, airy dining room with its smart white tablecloths and contemporary artworks or out on the gorgeous terrace, which is sure to put you in mind of Portofino, the Amalfi Coast and Capri. Whether inside or out, during the day or as the sun fades into night, you’ll enjoy beautiful views across the Gulf and the many comforts of this upmarket restaurant as you peruse the tempting menu.
The lunch and dinner menus are full of classic Italian dishes to suit every taste, from meat and seafood to pizza, pasta and salads. To start, try a platter of antipasti or a plate of grilled calamari, roasted pumpkin, cherry tomato and candied lemon with an aperitivo before moving on to something more substantial. If you’re in the mood to share, there are a number of small plates for family-style sharing, including roasted octopus, with Sicilian chickpea fritters, roasted fennel purée, olives and sundried tomatoes, and burrata with roasted grapes, pumpkin purée and thyme toasted bread. If a main dish is on your mind, the likes of house-made braised veal and spinach ravioli in a sage and veal sauce or pizza topped with San Marzano tomatoes, mozzarella, courgette, aubergine and spinach should satisfy.
Desserts are as decadent as the main courses, so whether you’re in the mood for a classic tiramisu or something a little lighter, there’s sure to be something to take your fancy. Pizza lovers should take note that Monday night is ‘Pizza Night’ at Café Milano, at which guests can enjoy two drinks and unlimited pizza for a set price. There’s a special brunch available each Saturday and special occasions and business events are well catered for too.