Behind the striking deep green door at Gate Avenue DIFC, Chic Nonna commands attention from the first glimpse. The entrance alone sets expectations: a grand arched doorway in a rich emerald hue with brass detailing and an elegant fanlight, opening onto a space where moody sophistication meets approachable warmth. Inside, dark timber panelling, sumptuous emerald velvet banquettes, and cream leather seating create an atmosphere of understated luxury, whilst the backlit wine wall casts a gentle amber glow across the dining room.
First impressions and fine beginnings
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The ritual begins with exceptional bread service. Warm focaccia and crusty salted loaves arrive with premium olive oil that pools golden in its dish, perfect for dipping. It’s a simple pleasure executed flawlessly, setting the tone for what follows.
The antipasti reinforces Chic Nonna’s dedication to quality. Tartare di tonno arrives as a precisely formed cylinder of diced bluefin, crowned with vivid dots of mango and avocado mousse, plus a delicate cap of caviar and microgreens. The presentation is Instagram-worthy, yet the flavours remain the true focus. The carpaccio di fassona showcases paper-thin slices of premium Piedmontese beef, dressed with fresh rocket, shaved Parmigiano, and a scattering of black truffle that adds earthy depth without overwhelming the delicate meat.
Pasta perfection worth the journey
The pasta programme delivers everything promised and more. The bavette nerano emerges as the undisputed star 10/10: ribbons of perfectly al dente pasta tossed with gossamer threads of zucchini and aged Parmesan, creating a glossy, umami-rich sauce that clings to every strand. It’s deceptively simple yet utterly compelling, the kind of dish that disappears from your plate before you realise.
The ravioli del plin shifts into richer territory. Each neat parcel conceals tender short rib ragù, bathed in glossy Parmigiano fondue and concentrated beef jus. Then arrives the theatrical spaghetti all’assassina, a Pugliese speciality rarely seen in Dubai. The pasta achieves that signature textural contrast: patches of pleasantly crisp strands alongside tender bites, all thoroughly infused with robustly spicy tomato sauce. A generous crown of burrata melts into the heat, tempering the spice whilst enriching every forkful. The tableside presentation, complete with protective bib, adds just the right touch of theatre without feeling gimmicky.
Sweet endings and serious wine
The tiramisu arrives in its classic ceramic dish: delicate ladyfinger layers soaked in quality espresso, enrobed in airy mascarpone cream with a generous dusting of cocoa. It strikes that ideal balance between richness and lightness, providing the perfect full stop to an indulgent meal.
The wine cellar deserves particular praise. The dramatically illuminated wall showcases bottles from across Italian regions, whilst the marble-topped bar area reveals a serious drinks programme. The service team demonstrates genuine knowledge, offering confident guidance toward pairings that enhance rather than overwhelm the cuisine. The intimate booth seating, upholstered in cream leather with geometric patterned flooring underfoot, proves ideal for lingering conversations.
For those seeking a refined Italian experience in DIFC that balances tradition with contemporary sensibility, Chic Nonna delivers across every dimension.
Quick Summary: Chic Nonna Dubai
- 📍 Location: Gate Avenue Mall Zone D DIFC, Dubai
- 🍝 Concept: Refined Italian osteria with focus on exceptional pasta
- 🎵 Ambience: Sophisticated and romantic, perfect for date nights
- 📅 Review Date: October 2025
- ✨ Signature: Bavette nerano (10/10), spaghetti all’assassina with tableside theatre
- 🍷 Highlight: Exceptional Italian wine selection with knowledgeable sommeliers
- 💰 Price Range: AED 500-700 per person
- 🎯 Best For: Pasta lovers, wine enthusiasts, romantic dinners, Italian cuisine aficionados
