Il Gattopardo in Dubai

Time Out Dubai

3 days ago

There may not be a spotted leopard lounging by the bar, but Il Gattopardo still has bite. At first glance, the sky-high restaurant wouldn't strike you as Italian. In fact, it is entirely gimmick-free and glistens with a sharp but inviting edge – think bold Art Deco features, deep reds, blues and some killer DIFC views.
Nestled inside the 51st floor of ICD Brookfield Place, there's an air of business about the place, but it's definitely relaxed, and as you sink into your seat, you'll notice the easy-going vibes almost immediately.
Credit: Il Gattopardo
Describing itself as serving Italian classics with a modern interpretation thrown in now and again, Gattopardo's menu really does do what it says on the tin – and well.
Despite sitting pretty at the top of a Dubai tower, the Italian doesn't come with penthouse prices. You could easily demolish a margherita pizza smothered in fior di latte and a glass of grape without denting the bank balance too hard.
But if you're going all out, the mains become steeper, with anything from the fish or meat selection sitting well above Dhs200.
Credit: Il Gattopardo
Kick off with a smoked burrata topped with grilled courgettes and pistachios, paired with a plate of the classic beef bolognese and smoked scamorza arancini (for a little crunch). They won't bowl you over, but they don't disappoint.
There are plenty of options for a main course, from fresh fish to truffle pizzas and an expertly cooked rack of lamb if you're in the mood. For a dish that tastes as good as it looks on the 'gram, the granchio taliolini is a must-try – a hearty plate of pasta full of fresh lemon zest and a sweeter brown crab broth that you won't forget easily.
Credit: Il Gattopardo
Yes, of course, there's tiramisu on the menu, but we'd suggest branching out when it comes to your dessert. Order one of the tavoletta chocolate bars to finish, adorned with a glistening golden gattopardo (leopard) on the top. Pick up the adorable chisel served with it and get to work breaking it into bite-sized pieces for a rich and lasting sweet note.
Managing to offer up a lively Italian without too many replays of That's Amore, Il Gattopardo gives the exact energy you need for a solid post-work bite in a space that isn't roaring for attention. With its refined setting, confident cooking and just enough edge to stand out in a crowded jungle of DIFC dining, this leopard has comfortably found its spot.