From pasta and brick-oven pizza to authentic regional dishes, you can find some of the most sumptuous and authentic Italian food right here in the capital. Abu Dhabi Week rounds up our top five ...

BiCE
Widely – and rightly – regarded as one of the best Italians in Abu Dhabi, BiCE’s menu offers a modern twist on a variety of homemade pasta dishes and risottos as well as some tempting steak and seafood selections. Top this off with the smoothest tiramisu in town and you’re on to a winner.
Cost: AED 200-350 per person
Contact: 02 681 1900

Mezzaluna
If money’s no object then why not serenade your palate with the rich Mediterranean culinary delights on offer at the award-winning Mezzaluna in Emirates Palace. From the moment you are greeted by the gentle tinkling of the piano, you know you are in for something special – and you won’t be disappointed.
Cost: AED 250-500 per person
Contact: 02 690 7999

Prego’s
Prego’s serves up consistently well-executed Italian fare, including delicious handmade pastas (you can see them being made) and wonderful wood-fire oven pizza and pasta. The fresh bread, virgin olive oil and parmesan cheese on arrival is scrumptious – and a meal in itself.
Cost: AED 150-250 per person
Contact: 02 697 9000

Spaccanapoli
Simple is the order of the day at Spaccanapoli – from the sleek decor all the way through to the classically-inspired menu – and it’s a policy that really pays off. The food is consistently well-prepared, the gnocchi is ‘simply’ delicious and, if you’re hungry, they make the largest pizza you’ve ever seen.
Cost: AED 150-250 per person
Contact: 02 621 0000

Il Porto
An unpretentious independent restaurant located behind Marina Mall, Il Porto has the unusual distinction of being the only Italian eatery in the capital that also offers fresh sushi. We recommend you stick to the more authentic Italian fare though – Abu Dhabi Week loves their wonderfully fresh pasta.
Cost: AED 150-200 per person
Contact: 02 635 9957