Elevated Italian with soul, skyline views, and serious flavour

There’s something quietly bold about Fi’lia Dubai. Perched high on the 70th floor of SLS Dubai, this Italian restaurant doesn’t rely on gimmicks or over-the-top theatrics to stand out. Instead, it delivers a warm, confident dining experience built around tradition, reinvention, and a bit of feminine flair – quite literally, since the entire senior team from kitchen to floor is made up of women.

The Venue

High above the city with panoramic views of Downtown Dubai and beyond, Fi’lia’s terrace is easily one of its biggest draws. Arriving just before sunset, we were seated on the alfresco deck, where golden hour spills across the skyline and soft jazz hums in the background.

The space feels intimate but lively, sophisticated without being stiff. A place where both date nights and catch-ups with friends feel equally at home. Inside, the décor balances modern minimalism with rustic charm, echoing the family-style heart of the menu.

Food Highlights

Fi’lia, which means “daughter” in Italian, structures its menu in a refreshingly fun way: Nonna (grandmother), Mamma (mother), and Figlia (daughter), each representing a different take on Italian cooking. Traditional, modern, and a little bit experimental.

We kicked things off with a creamy burrata from the Mamma section, served over asparagus with a vibrant tomato emulsion and a delicate asparagus purée. It’s familiar, but with just enough of a twist to keep it interesting. The Cozze e Vongole, a bowl of mussels and clams in tomato salsa, came with crusty sourdough (or focaccia if you prefer), perfect for mopping up the rich, garlicky broth.

From the Nonna lineup, the fried calamari was exactly as expected, crispy, well-seasoned, and generously portioned. A standout dish, though, was the Beef Tartare from the Figlia section. It’s layered with egg yolk jam, crunchy pecans, ricotta, robiola sauce, and a balsamic reduction. A bold, playful reimagination of a classic that somehow still respects its roots.

For mains, we leaned into comfort with a Ravioli Quattro Formaggi, filled with ricotta, mozzarella, provolone, and Parmigiano. It was everything you want from cheesy pasta. Rich, pillowy, and deeply satisfying. We also couldn’t resist the Margherita pizza and grilled king prawns. The latter was beautifully charred, massive in size, and kissed with lemon, chilli, and garlic butter that let the natural flavour of the seafood shine.

To end, the Fi’lia Tiramisu was as indulgent as it was pretty, topped with a touch of edible gold, a cheeky nod to the more glamorous side of the younger “figlia.”

The Verdict

Fi’lia isn’t just another Italian spot in a city overflowing with them. It brings heart, heritage, and a human touch to the plate, with breathtaking views as the cherry on top. From well-executed classics to creatively reworked favourites, the menu is a celebration of family, flavor, and feminine energy. Whether you’re in it for the pasta, the people-watching, or the views, this is one restaurant that lives up to its lofty location.

What’s new at Fi’lia Dubai?

Fi’lia Launches Brunch in Terrazza – A Chic Al Fresco Affair

Just in time for Dubai’s golden outdoor dining season, Fi’lia has introduced its newest weekend experience: Brunch in Terrazza. This stylish Saturday brunch brings a fresh wave of Italian charm to the city.

Crafted by Chef Célia Stoecklin, the brunch is a tribute to la dolce vita, offering a delicious lineup of antipasti including creamy Stracciatella, cold cuts, and fresh Caprese salad, along with chef’s selection pizzas and hand-crafted pastas. A live oyster station adds a touch of elegance, while a rolling dessert cart brings sweet indulgence straight to the table. A reduced à la carte menu is also available for those who want a taste of Fi’lia’s signature favourites.

Drinks flow freely with an array of spritzes, cocktails, and premium wines, making it the perfect setting for sun-soaked toasts. To top it off, live saxophone, DJ sets, and even an Italian “Nonna” making surprise appearances on the first Saturday of each month infuse the terrace with playful, family-style warmth.

The Details:

Date: Every Saturday
Time: from 12:30PM to 4:00PM (3:30PM last order)
Price and packages:

• AED 299 (Soft beverages)
• AED 499 (House package)
• AED 749 (Bubbly package)
  Location: 70th Floor, Fi’lia, SLS Dubai, Business Bay
  Reservations: Call +971 56 508 0655 or email [email protected].