Antonia Yas Island

Antonia Yas Island brings a genuine slice of Italy to the vibrant Ansam Retail complex on Yas Island. Part of the respected Antonia Group, this Abu Dhabi location specializes in pizza al taglio and authentic, generously portioned pasta dishes crafted from cherished family recipes. With a philosophy rooted in simplicity and honesty, Antonia proves that exceptional Italian cuisine doesn't need to be complicated—just well-sourced ingredients, time-honored techniques, and a 50-year-old sourdough starter named after the founder's grandmother.

The heart of the menu is the signature 72-hour fermented pizza dough. Made with 80% water, rustic Italian flour, olive oil, salt, and a proprietary sourdough culture that has been refreshed weekly since 1972, the result is a thick, bubbly, yet remarkably light and crispy crust. Each square slice carries a piece of that decades-old starter, creating a depth of flavor and an easy digestibility that sets Antonia apart from conventional pizzerias. The "al taglio" style means pizzas are baked in rectangular trays and sold by the slice, allowing diners to customize their plate from the colorful counter display.

Beyond pizza, the kitchen stays true to classic Italian principles. Pasta sauces rely exclusively on extra virgin olive oil, never cream or butter, and every dish is cooked al dente and served in hearty portions. Organic salads, crispy Supplì, and a curated selection of Italian wines, draft beers, and aperitivo round out the offering. The price point is accessible, with an estimated range of 100–300 AED per person, making it a strong casual dining choice for both quick lunches and relaxed evening meals.

Menu Highlights at Antonia Yas Island

The menu at Antonia Yas Island reflects the group's commitment to honest Italian street food done exceptionally well. While the website avoids lengthy dish lists, Google Maps reviews and the restaurant's founding story point to several standout categories that define the experience.

Pizza Al Taglio

The undisputed star of the show. Pizzas are baked in large rectangular trays with an array of toppings and displayed for per-slice ordering. The 72-hour fermentation and 50-year-old sourdough produce a crust that is crisp on the bottom, airy and bubbled within, and sturdy enough to hold generous toppings without sagging. A Google Maps Local Guide with 101 reviews called the pizza "the absolute highlight" and issued a clear recommendation for it.

Genuine Pasta

Antonia's pasta mission is to preserve recipes that have been forgotten or misinterpreted. Dishes are built on tradition: extra virgin olive oil replaces cream and butter, and every plate arrives al dente. One Google Maps reviewer described a memorable pasta finished tableside in a cheese wheel, noting it was "very tasty" though they wished it had been slightly warmer.

Supplì and Organic Salads

Classic Roman street food, Supplì are crispy fried rice croquettes with a molten mozzarella center. These, alongside organic salads, provide lighter or shareable alternatives to the pizza-and-pasta core.

Customer Reviews & Ratings

Antonia Yas Island boasts an impressive 5.0-star rating on Google Maps based on over 1,300 reviews—a testament to consistent quality and enthusiastic customer satisfaction. Reviewers repeatedly highlight three themes: the exceptional pizza dough, the authentic Italian atmosphere, and the warm, attentive service.

One reviewer, Karthik Mahalingam, remarked that he would have awarded six stars if possible, describing how the restaurant's charm and food quality lifted spirits after a disappointing event on Yas Island. Another diner, Christopher Hattinger, praised the "authentic Italian" character and "perfect service" during an evening meal. Across dozens of comments translated from German, words like "gastronomy," "atmosphere," and "Italian" appear frequently, underscoring the restaurant's success at delivering a holistic dining experience that feels both elevated and genuinely Italian.

While the vast majority of feedback is effusive, one reviewer noted a pasta dish that could have been served warmer—a detail that suggests the kitchen is receptive to minor adjustments and that the overall consistency remains extremely high. The volume and rating of reviews place Antonia Yas Island among the most positively received dining options in the Ansam Retail area.

The Dining Experience at Antonia Yas Island

Antonia Yas Island operates on a walk-in basis and does not accept reservations, as confirmed on the official contact page. The team promises to seat guests as quickly as possible, though peak times may involve a short wait. The atmosphere is casual and convivial, aligned with the pizza-al-taglio tradition of street food that is meant to be enjoyed with your hands—whether standing, seated, or taking away.

Service options include dine-in, takeaway, and contactless delivery, with online ordering available through the restaurant website. The dining room reflects the group's contemporary aesthetic: a clean, inviting space that suits everything from a quick solo lunch to a family dinner. Background Italian music and the open counter display of fresh pizzas contribute to a lively, appetite-stirring environment.

Antonia Yas Island in Abu Dhabi's Yas Island

The restaurant is located at YS3 06, Ansam Retail on Yas Island—Abu Dhabi’s premier entertainment and leisure district. Yas Island is home to Ferrari World, Warner Bros. World, Yas Marina Circuit (site of the Formula 1 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix), and Yas Mall, making Antonia a convenient and appealing dining option for both residents and visitors exploring the island's attractions. The Ansam Retail complex is a modern mixed-use area with easy access to public transport and parking, and the restaurant's map coordinates place it a short drive from the Yas Island hotels and theme parks.

Dedicated parking is available within the Ansam Retail development, and the restaurant is wheelchair accessible based on standard UAE retail building codes. Public transportation options serve Yas Island, though the exact bus stops and routes are best confirmed via local transit apps.

Hours, Reservations & Contact

Antonia Yas Island welcomes guests daily from 12:00 PM onwards, according to both the locations page and the preceding hours listings. While the Google Maps panel previously displayed an 8:00 AM opening, the official website and current operational details consistently reference a midday start. For the most up-to-date hours—especially during Ramadan, public holidays, or major events on Yas Island—calling the restaurant directly is recommended.

No reservations are taken; tables are allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. Delivery and takeaway orders can be placed via the website’s online ordering portal or by phone at +971 2 681 1699. The HR email address, hr@antoniarestaurant.com, is intended for employment inquiries, not dining reservations.

Common Questions

Does Antonia Yas Island take reservations?

No, Antonia Yas Island operates on a walk-in basis only. The team works to seat guests as promptly as possible, though wait times may occur during busy periods.

What is pizza al taglio?

Pizza al taglio means "by the slice" in Italian. Rectangular pizzas are baked with various toppings and sold by the slice, allowing diners to customize their selection and enjoy a mix of flavors in a single visit.

What are the operating hours of Antonia Yas Island?

The restaurant is open daily from 12:00 PM. Contact Antonia Yas Island at +971 2 681 1699 for holiday or special-event hours.

Does the restaurant offer delivery?

Yes, contactless delivery is available. Orders can be placed online through the Antonia website or by calling the restaurant directly.

Is there outdoor seating at Antonia Yas Island?

The restaurant is located within the Ansam Retail complex, and specific outdoor seating availability may vary seasonally. Contact the team for the most current information.

Is Antonia Yas Island wheelchair accessible?

Yes, as a contemporary retail location, the restaurant features step-free access suitable for wheelchair users.

What is the price range at Antonia Yas Island?

Based on Google Maps data, the estimated cost is 100–300 AED per person. Final bills will vary based on order size and beverage selection.

Can I host a private event at Antonia Yas Island?

For large group inquiries and private event possibilities, contact the restaurant at +971 2 681 1699. Keep in mind that the walk-in policy applies to standard dining.