The larger-than-life restaurant from Milan makes a suitably energetic splash in DIFC
The spot
Much-anticipated Gloria – the Dubai debut from restaurant heavyweights Big Mamma Group – has found a home in The Ritz-Carlton DIFC. Known and loved for their over-the-top décor, charming Italian hospitality, and menu of crowd-pleasing sharing plates, they’re looking to replicate the smash-hit success they’ve found in Europe in one of Dubai’s most competitive dining destinations.
You’re greeted by a triple-height reception, where walls laden with rainbow-hued bottles that offer instant wow-factor. Once you enter the restaurant, the interiors are just as striking: kaleidoscopic hues, clashing prints, kitsch interiors – it’s bold and busy in all the right ways. Outside, an expansive terrace is where we choose to sit on a sunny weekend afternoon. The whimsical, Wonderland-esque space, with its floral prints and pops of red, wouldn’t look out of place in a Lewis Carroll novel.
The food
The menu is well thought out and accessible, and very well priced for this part of town. A caprese carpaccio is a light and refreshing way to begin, simply seasoned, chunky slices of juicy tomato and mozzarella drizzled with a homemade basil pesto.
We eye up generous bowls of truffle pasta being served to tables around us in parmesan wheels, before ultimately deciding to opt for the spaghetti chitarra all’astice, where meaty chunks of lobster are tossed in a rich but well-balanced datterini tomato sauce and a light lobster bisque alongside perfectly al dente pasta. Our second main course, a wagyu striploin, is similarly flavourful – if a little over-cooked from our medium-rare order, seasoned with rock salt and served with a sticky jus de viande and your choice of side – our crispy French Fries provide a classic combo.
With eyes bigger than our bellies, we order the torta al Limone, and when we see the towering slice – complete with 12cm meringue – heading our way, we know we made the right call. The crunchy base, zesty lemon and creamy meringue hit the sweet spot.
The service
Polite and knowledgeable, although not quite as friendly and fun as those familiar with its European locations might expect.
What’s on the bill
Starters range from Dhs70 to Dhs100, while mains are affordably priced, largely between Dhs85 and Dhs220. The must-order torta al Limone is Dhs58 – and is definitely designed for sharing.
What’s On verdict
Big, bold and beautiful – Gloria makes an impact with its Instagrammable décor and photo-friendly menu to match. Terrace tables are the ones to book for alfresco dining with wow-factor.
Location: The Ritz-Carlton DIFC
Times: Daily 12pm to 2am
Contact: (0)4 577 8546. @gloriaosteria.dxb
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