Al Fresco in Crowne Plaza Dubai, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai - Restaurant Reviews

Al Fresco

This small eatery is simple, rustic and busy. Al Fresco is built like a tunnel-shaped, wooden-framed greenhouse with a kitchen at one end 3 Reviews

This small eatery is simple, rustic and busy. Al Fresco is built like a tunnel-shaped, wooden-framed greenhouse with a kitchen at one end. Broad wooden sills run down both sides of the tunnel, which are cluttered with homely ferns, lamps and jars. The waiting staff were dressed in pale hues of fresh blue and yellow, while the chunky ceramic tableware – also blue and yellow – toned well with the upholstery. This all bode well for the meal ahead.

The table settings were informal, attractive and appropriate … except for the paper place mats with Italian trivia quizzes and crosswords. The menu offered an excellent selection of home-style Italian dishes (and a mine of information on pasta shapes and names). The monthly regional menu recommended Ligurian specialities. A well-chosen selection of vintages from Italy, France, South Africa, Australia and California were all on offer at affordable prices.

The warm Italian breads, with oil and balsamic for dunking, were good and very fresh. The attractively presented Mediterranean vegetable platter, was an ample starter, was an authentic Italian selection attractively presented. The artichoke frittata, off the Ligurian menu, took a reassuringly long time to arrive. Obviously fresh from the pan; it was light, flavoursome, generously topped with artichokes, and had a classic rocquet and Parmesan garnish.

Main courses were generous, uncomplicated and wholesome. The gnocchi with Gorgonzola, a classic combination, was perfectly executed with just the right amount of rich cream sauce. The spinach cannelloni was also excellent; especially the crisp Parmesan topping. All dishes were served thoroughly hot, on spotless, hot plates.

The choice of desserts was concise and balanced. The chef's small twists on classic recipes were delicious. Tiramisu served in a big stemmed glass was flavoured with Amaretto, which made a nice change from Marsala. It was light while still being creamy, and it was sad not to be able to finish it all. The Panna cotta, delicately sweetened with honey, was also good.

The service was friendly and discreet. The pricing was sensible and very fair. Simplicity is infrequently well executed in Dubai’s restaurants. Al Fresco’s food is simple and well executed. It is well worth a visit.

By Time Out Dubai