If you are searching for sophistication with a side of refined Italian glamour, look to the laid-back yet luxurious Il Ristorante Niko Romito. You are welcomed into a dimly lit, undeniably chic interior. The delectable menu curated by the Michelin starred Italian chef, Niko Romito, is filled with modern iterations on traditional Italian dishes, making the choice a difficult affair. Luckily, the waiter was on hand with ample suggestions which we took on board gladly. To start we opted for the delicately delightful carpaccio di ricciola, a marinated yellow-tail amberjack characterized with tomatoes, capers, olives and orange. We of course had to try a pasta dish, so decided on the lobster and red-prawn linguine which certainly did not disappoint. Not too heavy, yet everything you’d expect from a five-star Italian kitchen. And our secondi came in the form of the baked codfish, dressed with chickpeas, a light garlic sauce and traditional balsamic vinegar. Every forkful was flavorful satisfaction. Almost too full for dessert, we took a slight recess and enjoyed the relaxed yet elevated atmosphere and our mocktails, looking out to night sky and adjacent Yacht Club. Once enough time had passed, we washed down our meal with the apple compote with ricotta cheese and capers – the perfect fusion of sweet and savory. To end, we were offered a vibrant, virgin limoncello and branded Bulgari chocolates, putting the fine final touches on an exquisite dining experience.

Find Il Ristorante Niko Romito at The Bvlgari Resort Dubai, Ground Floor, Jumeira Bay Island, Jumeirah 2, Dubai, UAE. Call +971 (0)4 777 5433 for reservations or visit bulgarihotels.com