Emirates Palace has plenty of golden sparkle and date palms that make it unmistakably of the UAE, but you’ll find plenty of inspiration from around the world within.
For the flavours of Italy, there’s Talea by Antonio Guida, tucked away on the lower level of the spacious hotel.
This airy white space decorated with modern round chandelier and fresco-like paintings has a very different mood than the flashy gold the five-star hotel has fans flocking for, but Talea still has the same regal feel.
The restaurant’s owner has come to Abu Dhabi from Italy, along with many of the staff and, indeed, the pizza oven, which has pride of place in the middle of the restaurant. It could offer dinner and a show, but the pillars and length of the restaurant mean few seats have a prime view of the skilled chefs at work.
Of course some could argue that best seats are on the terrace, which fills up quickly. But, you may just forget where you’re eating when you’re scoffing your dinner.
Talea’s contained menu is a sweep of Italian classics and family recipes. Vitello tonnato is a winning place to start, while lobster linguine (featuring both cooked and raw iterations of the crustacean) is a true highlight among the mains.
A separate, very well priced grape menu complements the on-point flavours.
Talea is the definition of a few ingredients done incredibly well. Don’t try to figure out how they do it. Just sit back and enjoy each delicious bite.
