
5 of the best restaurants in Dubai this week: July 1 to July 3
Images: Supplied
TOTÓ Dubai has just launched a summer menu that brings serious coastal Italy vibes. Start with the insalata di polpo – chilled octopus with green beans, tomatoes, and violet potatoes in a zesty citrus dressing. The bruschettone al pomodoro features grilled sourdough topped with garlic, ripe tomatoes, and basil, while mussel lovers should dive into the garlicky sauté di cozze, inspired by Naples.
On the pasta front, highlights include the beef-stuffed ravioli di brasato, tagliatelle alla bolognese, and a vibrant shrimp risotto finished with Amalfi lemon. You'll also find gnocchi alla sorrentina baked in tomato and mozzarella, and the calamarata allo scoglio, loaded with fresh seafood.For mains, tuck into Mediterranean-style grilled prawns or the ultra-tender veal cheek, slow-cooked and served with mash and demi-glace. Seasonal grilled vegetables round out the summer spread.
It's all been curated by Chef Angelo Santi, a longtime star of the Italian food scene, so you know you're in expert hands.
Location: TOTÓ Dubai, Hotel Boulevard, Downtown Dubai
Times: Daily, 12pm to 1a
Contact: (0)4 215 2121. @totorestaurantdubai ALAYA
Images: Supplied
ALAYA's Flavours of Sayf menu brings a fresh twist to Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisine — just in time for summer evenings. Begin with creamy muhammara and a crisp, zesty fattoush salad, then move into warm starters like fried calamari with za'atar and spiced potato harra. For mains, there's shish kofte simmered in rich tomato sauce, a hearty Mediterranean pasta with eggplant and cheese, and perfectly grilled shish chicken served alongside seasonal vegetables.
One of the standout dishes? The comforting maqlouba rice, layered with golden fried eggplant and cauliflower, full of flavour and soul. End on a sweet note with an apricot tart or pistachio ice cream, elevated with a scattering of jewel-like pomegranate seeds.
Location: ALAYA, Gate Village, DIFC
Cost: Flavours of Sayf menu, AED 250 per person
Times: Daily, 4pm to 8pm
Contact: (0)4 323 5654. @alayadubai Three Cuts Steakhouse
Image: Supplied
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