Finding the best Italian restaurant in Dubai is not as simple as choosing one name. The city offers a wide spectrum of Italian dining, shaped by neighbourhoods, chefs, and dining styles. From refined Michelin-starred experiences to relaxed casual eateries, Italian cuisine in Dubai is diverse, layered, and constantly changing.
What makes Dubai stand out is its diverse range of offerings. You can enjoy handmade pasta in an intimate dining room one evening, then share wood-fired pizza overlooking the sea the next. Some restaurants stay loyal to regional Italian traditions. Others reinterpret classics for a modern, international audience.
Rather than presenting a single winner, this guide explores where to find the best Italian restaurant in Dubai depending on location, atmosphere, and what you value most on the plate.
- Top recommendations for Italian restaurants in Dubai
- Michelin-starred and high-end Italian restaurants in Dubai
- Classic and chain favorites
- Comparison of the best Italian restaurants in Dubai
- Key Takeaways
- FAQs
Top recommendations for Italian restaurants in Dubai
With so many Italian dining options across the city, narrowing down the best choices can feel overwhelming. The restaurants below are consistently recognised for food quality, service, and overall experience, making them strong starting points for anyone searching for the best Italian restaurant in Dubai.
il Pastaio Dubai
il Pastaio Dubai is frequently mentioned when discussing the best Italian restaurant in Dubai for pasta lovers. Originally from Beverly Hills, the restaurant has gained attention for its rich, indulgent dishes and celebrity following. S
- Opening Hours: 12:00 PM to 12:00 AM (daily)
- Prices: AED 445 (on average for two people)
Location
Al Habtoor City Boulevard – Sheikh Zayed Rd
Contact
- Phone: +971 54 7913320
- Instagram: @ilpastaiodxb
Naughty Pizza Dubai
Pizza enthusiasts often point to Naughty Pizza Dubai when debating the best Italian restaurant in Dubai for casual dining. With a focused menu and careful attention to dough and toppings, it delivers quality without overcomplication. The setting is informal, but the execution is precise.
- Opening Hours:
- Monday – Wednesday: 5:00 PM to 12:00 AM
- Friday: 5:00 PM to 1:00 AM
- Saturday: 12 PM to 12:30 AM
- Sunday: 12 PM to 12 AM
- Prices: AED 190 (on average for two people)
Location
Vezul Residence – Business Bay, Dubai
Contact
- Phone: +971 4 426 9991
- Instagram: @naughtypizza.dxb
Chic Nonna
Chic Nonna Dubai, a newer addition to DIFC, has quickly earned strong reviews. The menu feels personal and expressive, offering dishes that respect tradition while allowing for creativity. It appeals to guests who want refinement without formality.
- Opening Hours: 12:00 PM to 11:30 PM (daily)
- Prices: AED 520 (on average for two people)
Location
DIFC, Gate Avenue Mall Zone D
Contact
- Phone: +971 4 426 9991
- Instagram: @chicnonnadubai
Positano
For diners who prefer a more classic menu, Positano in Business Bay offers familiar Italian comfort. Fresh pasta, quality meats, and a strong dessert selection define the experience. While pricing sits on the higher end, the restaurant appeals to guests looking for traditional flavours in a refined setting.
- Opening Hours: 6:00 PM to 12:00 AM (daily)
- Prices: : AED 395 (on average for two people)
Location
Sheikh Zayed Road, Business Bay
Contact
- Phone: +971 4 426 9991
- Instagram: @positanodxb
Michelin-starred and high-end Italian restaurants in Dubai
If you are feeling a bit fancy or have something to celebrate, then the next picks surely are for you.
L’ Olivo at Al Mahara
At Burj Al Arab, L’Olivo at Al Mahara delivers a sophisticated Italian dining experience in one of Dubai’s most iconic settings. The menu leans toward classic Italian dishes, elevated by refined service and atmosphere.
- Opening Hours: 6:30 PM to 10:00 PM (daily)
- Prices: AED 1255 (on average for two people)
Location
Burj Al Arab – Jumeira St – Umm Suqeim
Contact
- Phone: +971 800 323232
- Instagram: @lolivo_burjalarab
The Artisan
The Artisan, listed in the Michelin Guide, offers consistency across locations while maintaining high standards. As one of the best high-end restaurants in Dubai, it focuses on quality ingredients and traditional techniques, making it a reliable choice for guests who value authenticity.
- Opening Hours: 12:00 PM to 11:30 PM
- Prices: AED 610 (on average for two people)
Location
Zaa’beel Second – DIFC
Contact
- Phone: +971 4 338 8133
- Instagram: @theartisandubai
Classic and chain favorites
Not every search for the best Italian restaurant in Dubai ends at fine dining. Many residents and visitors value consistency, comfort, and familiarity.
Scalini
Scalini remains a long-standing favourite. Its Art Deco interiors and traditional menu create a timeless atmosphere. The food is classic, portions are generous, and the experience feels reliably comforting.
- Opening Hours:
- Sunday – Thursday: 12:00 PM to 11:00 PM
- Friday and Saturday: 12:00 PM to 12:00 AM
- Prices: AED 500 (on average for two people)
Location
Waldorf Astoria – Zaa’beel Second – DIFC – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
Contact
- Phone: +971 4 349 0068
- Instagram: @scalinidubai
Oregano Restaurants
Oregano Restaurants offer accessible Italian dining across multiple locations in Dubai. Inspired by Ligurian cuisine, the menu focuses on fresh ingredients and seasonal dishes. It is a popular choice for families and casual meals.
- Opening Hours: Varies depending on location but generally opens at 11:
- Prices: AED 180 (on average for two people)
Locations
- Business Bay
- Dubai Investment Park
- Al Furjan
- Dubai Safari Park
- Dubai Media City
- Motor City
- Mirdiff
- Jumeirah
- Dubai Marina
Contact
Instagram: @oreganorestaurantsuae
Comparison of the best Italian restaurants in Dubai
| Restaurant | Location | Dining Style | Average Price (for 2) | Highlights | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| il Pastaio Dubai | Al Habtoor City, Sheikh Zayed Rd | Casual fine dining | AED 445 | Signature pasta dishes, celebrity favourite, lively atmosphere | Pasta lovers, social dining |
| Naughty Pizza Dubai | Vezul Residence, Business Bay | Casual | AED 190 | Focused pizza menu, precise execution, informal setting | Pizza enthusiasts, casual meals |
| Chic Nonna Dubai | DIFC, Gate Avenue Mall | Refined | AED 520 | Personal, expressive menu, modern Italian | Balanced fine dining without formality |
| Positano | Sheikh Zayed Road, Business Bay | Classic Italian | AED 395 | Traditional pasta, quality meats, desserts | Classic Italian comfort |
| L’Olivo at Al Mahara | Burj Al Arab, Jumeira St | Luxury / Michelin-level | AED 1255 | Iconic location, sophisticated Italian cuisine | Celebrations, luxury dining |
| The Artisan | Zaa’beel Second, DIFC | High-end / Michelin-listed | AED 610 | Traditional techniques, quality ingredients | Special occasions, refined lunches/dinners |
| Scalini | Waldorf Astoria, Zaa’beel Second, DIFC | Classic / Trattoria | AED 500 | Timeless menu, Art Deco interiors | Comfort, classic Italian experience |
| Oregano Restaurants | Multiple locations | Casual / Chain | AED 180 | Ligurian-inspired, seasonal dishes, accessible | Families, everyday Italian meals |
Key Takeaways
Dubai does not have one single best Italian restaurant, but a wide range of standout options across different dining styles. Areas such as DIFC, Business Bay, and Downtown are ideal for refined Italian dining, while casual options are spread across the city.
High-end restaurants like L’Olivo at Al Mahara and The Artisan are best suited for celebrations and special occasions. Whereas mid-range and casual venues such as il Pastaio Dubai, Naughty Pizza Dubai, and Positano balance quality with approachability. Finally, classic and chain restaurants like Scalini and Oregano remain popular for consistency, comfort, and everyday dining.
The best Italian restaurant in Dubai is ultimately defined by your budget, location, and the kind of experience you want to enjoy
FAQs
Yes, Oregano (12 locations), Da Vinci’s, and Gusto are just some of the examples.
Naughty Pizza, il Pastaio Dubai, and The Artisan are among the best restaurants in Dubai.
Yes, various ones including The Artisan and Il Ristorante-Niko Romito.
For handmade and traditional pasta, il Pastaio Dubai, Fi’lia Dubai, and Positano are among the top choices, known for their attention to sauces, ingredients, and presentation.
Many do. Options include lunch sets, weekday specials, aperitivo hours, and themed nights, particularly at il Pastaio Dubai and Cucina Dubai.
