Cafe Milano

In the heart of the UAE capital, on the vibrant shores of Al Maryah Island, sits a dining destination that transports guests straight to the glamorous coasts of Italy. Cafe Milano at the Four Seasons Hotel Abu Dhabi is not just a restaurant; it is a celebration of la dolce vita, a place where authentic cuisine meets a high-energy, effortlessly chic ambiance. From the moment you step into the lower lobby level, you are enveloped in an atmosphere that feels like a stylish boutique, adorned with fashion-centric art and bespoke design elements that pay homage to Milan’s status as a global capital of design and fashion.

As the sister restaurant to the legendary, award-winning power hub in Washington, DC, Cafe Milano Abu Dhabi carries forward a 33-year legacy of hospitality, passion, and culinary excellence. It's a home away from home for heads of state, diplomats, and discerning diners alike, offering a unique formula of good living that has been perfected over decades by founder Franco Nuschese. The restaurant masterfully combines world-class Italian flavors with a warm, welcoming spirit that defines the Italian way of hospitality.

The Culinary Vision

Expertly curated by Corporate Chef Franco Sangiacomo, the cuisine at Cafe Milano celebrates the stunning beauty and deep variety of regional Italian flavors. Chef Sangiacomo's culinary philosophy is beautifully simple yet profoundly emotional. He blends novel techniques with the timeless Italian classics taught to him by his grandmother, creating contemporary dishes that respect the pure, authentic taste of the finest ingredients. The result is a menu that lets the components speak for themselves, offering a true taste of Italy.

Signature Dishes and Menus

The menu is a journey through Italy’s beloved culinary landscape. Favorites among guests include perfectly prepared pastas, rich and creamy risottos, and a selection of antipasti designed to whet the appetite. While the savory courses shine, the dessert menu is an experience in itself, featuring classics like the ever-popular Tiramisu, alongside a range of exquisite, seasonally-inspired sweets. Every dish is presented with an artful eye, making the dining experience a feast for both the palate and the eyes. Guests can choose from a variety of curated experiences, including a refined A La Carte menu, a quick and satisfying Business Lunch, a specialized Dinner Special, and a downloadable Dessert menu.

Services and Experiences

Cafe Milano offers more than just a meal; it offers a complete Italian lifestyle experience. Whether you are planning a romantic dinner, a business gathering, or a casual after-work meetup, the venue provides tailored options. The team is dedicated to accommodating guests’ preferences, with vegan options available and a helpful staff ready to customize dishes upon request. The service options are designed for convenience and luxury, including an elegant dine-in experience, a takeaway service, and a reservation system to ensure your table is ready.

• Dine-In Luxury: Enjoy the vibrant dining room with its iconic dhow-boat sculptures and fashion-themed décor.
• Takeaway Service: Savor authentic Italian cuisine from the comfort of your own space.
• Table Reservations: Reserve your spot online or by phone to ensure a seamless dining experience.

Exclusive Events and Private Dining

Cafe Milano is host to a series of signature events that have become landmarks in Abu Dhabi’s social calendar. The weekly Aperitivo is a charming Italian ritual held every day from 5:00pm to 7:00pm. Upon purchasing a beverage at the upbeat bar, guests are treated to a complimentary selection of delicious, typical Italian bites, making it the perfect way to detox, mingle, and take it slowly after work. For a more substantial feast, the L'ITALIA IN TAVOLA weekend brunch is an unmissable culinary celebration. Available on Saturdays and Sundays from 12pm to 4pm, it offers a lavish Italian spread, all at a set price per person, excluding beverages.

Hand-Tailored Private Events

For special occasions or corporate dinners, the private dining room is a masterpiece of design and functionality. Filled with natural daylight, it opens directly onto a beautiful terrace overlooking the Arabian Gulf. Whether you are hosting an intimate party of five or a grand event for up to 150 people, every detail is hand-tailored to perfection, ensuring your gathering is both memorable and seamless.

The Al Fresco Terrace

The allure of Cafe Milano extends beyond its stylish interior to a stunning terrazza that embodies the glamour of a Mediterranean vacation. A light breeze and serene water views create an ambiance reminiscent of Portofino, Sardinia, or the Amalfi Coast. Dining on the terrace is the epitome of Italian good living, offering a glamorous escape where you can embrace la dolce vita under the Abu Dhabi sky. It is the perfect setting for a romantic evening or a leisurely lunch with friends.

Why Guests Love Cafe Milano

With a rating of 4.1 stars from over 340 reviews, guests consistently praise the restaurant for its outstanding food and beautiful environment. Visitors frequently describe the restaurant as a fancy and vibrant place, perfect for celebrating special occasions like Valentine’s Day. The attentive and friendly service is a recurring theme, with staff going above and beyond to accommodate diners, even those without reservations. The combination of an energetic atmosphere, elegantly presented dishes, and a genuine commitment to guest satisfaction creates an experience that keeps patrons returning.

Location, Hours, and Reservations

Conveniently located on Al Maryah Island, Cafe Milano is easily accessible from all parts of Abu Dhabi. The specific address is the Lower Lobby Level, Four Seasons Hotel Abu Dhabi, Al Maryah Island. It is open daily, bringing the taste of Italy to the capital seven days a week.

Hours of Operation

• Lunch: 12:00pm – 5:30pm daily
• Dinner: 6:00pm – 11:30pm daily

Getting in Touch

Reserving a table is simple and highly recommended to ensure your place at this sought-after venue. You can make a reservation by calling the restaurant directly at +971 2 333 2630. For general inquiries or to book a private event, you can reach the team by email at cafemilano.abudhabi@fourseasons.com. Whether you are a local or a visitor, the team welcomes you to experience a taste of Italy in Abu Dhabi.