Taverna del Moro

Taverna del Moro brings the authentic flavors of Italy to the heart of Abu Dhabi. Located within the prestigious St. Regis Island Resort at The Residence Collection on Saadiyat Island, this restaurant is a culinary journey steeped in Sicilian tradition. Founded in 2018 from a union of Italian excellence, Taverna del Moro is a proud creation of Dolci & Capricci, dedicated to celebrating the importance of sharing good food, good company, and good times. The restaurant has become a cherished destination for both locals and tourists seeking a genuine Italian dining experience, where every dish tells a story of passion and high-quality, handcrafted ingredients.

The menu is an extensive exploration of Italy's culinary diversity. Central to its identity is the use of fresh, high-quality ingredients, with everything on the menu handcrafted in their own laboratory. This commitment ensures that from the classic appetizers to the heartier main courses, each recipe reflects authentic Italian flavors. The chefs at Taverna del Moro are dedicated to preserving traditional cooking techniques while embracing innovation, resulting in a dining experience that is both timeless and unique. Whether you are seeking a quick bite or a leisurely evening meal, the restaurant offers a warm and inviting atmosphere that feels like a rustic Italian taverna.

Menu Highlights at Taverna del Moro

Taverna del Moro’s menu is a celebration of Sicilian-style cuisine, featuring a wide array of dishes that have garnered high praise from guests. The culinary philosophy is grounded in authenticity, showcasing the flavors of Italy through freshly made pasta, perfectly crafted pizzas, and delightful homemade pastries.

Sicilian-Style Pizzas and Fresh Pasta

The pizza at Taverna del Moro is frequently described as having a perfect crust and an authentic Sicilian touch. The fresh pasta, another cornerstone of the menu, is handcrafted and melts in the mouth. These dishes are not just meals; they are a centerpiece of the dining experience, prepared with unique recipes from the chefs.

Seafood, Meat, and Classic Italian Courses

The menu is thoughtfully structured to cater to a variety of palates. Guests can start with appetizers, followed by a selection of first courses, seafood dishes, and second courses featuring both meat and seafood. A highlight is the Pepata di Cozze, a dish of fresh mussels in a flavorful tomato broth, a classic Italian comfort food made with the freshest ingredients. Grilled vegetables also come highly recommended, offering a fantastic complement to the main dishes.

Homemade Pastries and Gelato

No authentic Italian meal is complete without a sweet finish. The in-house pastry selection is a delightful surprise for many guests, with scrumptious homemade pastries serving as the perfect end to a meal. Gelato and other pastries are listed among the popular items, reflecting the restaurant’s dedication to handcrafted excellence in every course including desserts.

The Dining Experience

The ambiance at Taverna del Moro is carefully curated to reflect the essence of a traditional Italian taverna. The warm, inviting interiors and a beautifully set dining space create a cozy and welcoming atmosphere. Guests are greeted upon arrival and made to feel right at home, making it the perfect place to share a meal with loved ones. The service is consistently noted as top-notch, with friendly and attentive staff who go out of their way to ensure every dining experience is perfect.

Outdoor Terrace and Modern Comforts

One of the stand-out features is the beautiful outdoor terrace, ideal for enjoying a meal in the pleasant Abu Dhabi weather. Whether dining inside or out, the restaurant incorporates modern cooking technology to maintain the highest standards of quality. The table setting is incredibly beautiful, adding a touch of elegance to the rustic charm. Service options include dine-in, in-store pickup, and contactless delivery, providing flexibility for all preferences.

Customer Reviews and Ratings

Taverna del Moro holds a strong 4.5-star rating on Google Maps, based on 364 reviews. The feedback consistently highlights the exceptional quality of the food and the warmth of the service. Google Maps reviewers consistently mention that the pizza is some of the best they have ever had, with one review describing the experience as “unforgettable.”

The authentic Sicilian flavors are a recurring theme, with many guests noting that the fresh pasta and homemade pastries are standout items. A visitor praised the “fantastic pizza and grilled vegetables,” while another recent review simply stated, “Pizza and Salad Mega good!!” The owner actively engages with the community, responding to reviews with genuine appreciation for the feedback, which reinforces the restaurant’s commitment to customer satisfaction. The testimonials featured on their website echo these sentiments, with guests describing the flavors as “bold and authentic, transporting us to the heart of Sicily with every bite.”

Taverna del Moro on Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi

Taverna del Moro is situated at the St. Regis Island Resort, part of The Residence Collection on Saadiyat Island in Abu Dhabi. Saadiyat Island is renowned for its cultural institutions and pristine beaches, making it a premier destination for leisure and luxury. The restaurant is located in a serene and upscale part of the city, easily accessible and offering a refined escape for Italian cuisine lovers. It is open throughout the week, with hours tailored for both afternoon and late-evening dining.

• Hours: Sunday to Thursday, 14:00 to 23:00; Friday to Saturday, 15:00 to 01:00.
• Contact: Phone +971 2 631 1030.
• Price Range: 100–300 AED per person, as reported by 65 people on Google Maps.

Special Events and Promotions

Taverna del Moro is more than a restaurant; it is a community gathering place that hosts events celebrating Italian festivals and traditions. The restaurant regularly organizes special promotions to enhance the dining experience. These include an “Unlimited Pizza offer,” an “Italian Brunch,” and an “Aperol Spritz Party.” These events reflect the restaurant's philosophy of celebrating good times and sharing great food, making every visit potentially unique and festive.

Common Questions About Taverna del Moro

What type of cuisine does Taverna del Moro specialize in?

Taverna del Moro specializes in authentic Sicilian-style Italian cuisine. The menu features handcrafted fresh pasta, wood-fired pizzas with a perfect crust, a variety of seafood and meat dishes, and an in-house selection of homemade pastries and gelato.

Does Taverna del Moro offer vegetarian options?

While the menu is rooted in Italian tradition with a strong focus on meat and seafood, it includes salads and classic vegetable-based appetizers. The grilled vegetables have been specifically praised by guests. For detailed dietary inquiries, it is best to contact the restaurant directly.

Is there outdoor seating available?

Yes. Taverna del Moro features a beautiful terrace for outdoor seating, which is frequently mentioned in customer reviews as a highlight of the dining experience. It provides a lovely setting for a meal in Abu Dhabi.

Does Taverna del Moro take reservations and offer delivery?

Reservations can be made through the “Book a Table” page on their official website. For those who prefer to dine at home, the restaurant offers contactless delivery and in-store pickup for takeaway orders. Online ordering is also available through their website.

Where is Taverna del Moro located and what are its hours?

The restaurant is located at the St. Regis Island Resort, The Residence Collection, on Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi. Operating hours are Sunday through Thursday from 14:00 to 23:00, and Friday and Saturday from 15:00 to 01:00.