Most mall restaurants are generally not considered to be venues worthy of special occasions or romantic date nights.
But Osteria Mario proves this theory wrong.
Joining seamlessly onto Georgian restaurant Shvili, another brilliant venture by Tigrus Holding, the chic Italian hotspot brings serious Milan vibes. However, while the works of art and glittering chandeliers give it a stylish and sophisticated feel, the concealed eco play area makes it immensely family-friendly, too.
Peaceful al fresco dining
But, it’s the outdoor terrace that brings serious wow factor.
Peaceful, quiet and decorated with tasteful fairy lights and elegant lighting, it’s so beautiful it feels more like the terrace of a five-star hotel, rather than the side of a shopping mall.
The menu isn’t hugely extensive, but it boasts all your favourite Italian classics.
Specialising in authentic and traditional Italian cuisine, there isn’t a quirky ‘fusion’ dish in sight. This refreshing approach allows the premium high-quality ingredients and expert craftsmanship to speak for itself.
For instance, even the olives served as we wait for our food are some of the plumpest and juiciest we’ve ever tried. We demolish them all within a couple of minutes, however it’s not long before our Instagram-worthy starters are placed before us.
Premium quality ingredients
The bright red tomatoes in the bruschetta and caprese salad are bursting with so much incredible flavour, while the Caeser salad offers a satisfying contrast of fresh and crispy lettuce, tender and juicy chicken, and rich and creamy dressing.
The simple yet tasty giant crispy shrimp are lightly battered and not at all greasy, and the portions of each are generous without being overly excessive.
For the main course, we sample the ‘Mario Meat’ pizza. Featuring beef, chicken breast, bresaola and rosemary, you might think that there’s too much going on for a classic Italian pizza. But trust us, it works. It really works.
Rarely have we tasted such a flavoursome and interesting topping combination. The base is incredibly light and crispy, too. If you’re a deep pan, loaded topping kind of person, it might not be for you, but if you like your pizzas authentic Italian style, it doesn’t get any better.
Paired with a classic, cream-free carbonara, cooked al dente and scattered with crispy beef bacon, it’s the perfect combination.
Irresistible desserts
We conclude that we just about have room for dessert and, when we take our first mouthful of our creamy cheesecake with berries and salted caramel, we’re immediately happy with our decision.
It’s indubitably one of the best we have ever tasted, while the apple tart is packed with taste and texture and complemented perfectly by a scoop of delectable vanilla ice cream.
The coffee also arrives just before our sweets as requested, concluding the seamlessly superb service that we’ve received from start to finish.
With pizzas starting from just AED 49, Osteria Mario at Dubai Hills Mall offers an enticing fusion of affordable prices, delightful Italian specialties, and a setting worthy of the finest Michelin-star establishments in the city.
Make sure you check it out next time you’re in the area.
Dubai Hills Mall, Dubai. Tel: +971 52 929 20 88, osteriamario.ae.
