If you’re in Dubai and on the hunt for authentic Italian cuisine, look no further than Pepe Cucina. Open at the Address Beach Resort, this new restaurant offers a fresh perspective on Italian dining, grounded in handmade pasta, wood-fired dishes, and all the indulgent flavours we crave. With its inviting atmosphere and stunning waterfront views, Pepe Cucina invites you to relax and linger a little longer.
The Space
Pepe Cucina sets itself apart from traditional Italian dining establishments by featuring four distinct areas, each with its own charm. Guests can choose from cosy indoor settings or open-air seating with views of JBR and Ain Dubai, making it perfect for a leisurely lunch, sunset drinks, or a spirited dinner with friends. The interior design marries the warmth of an Italian trattoria with a contemporary twist. At the bar, playful décor elements create a lively ambiance, while a dedicated kids’ area makes it a family-friendly option.
The Service
The relaxed vibe at Pepe Cucina extends to its service, where a friendly and attentive team creates a welcoming atmosphere. The staff is always on hand to guide you through the menu, ensuring that every visit feels less formal and more like dining with friends.
The Food and Drinks
Pepe Cucina’s menu is a showcase of delightful Italian cuisine that might just make deciding what to order the toughest part of your meal. Start with fresh dishes like the yellow and red endive salad accompanied by gorgonzola, pecans, and figs, or enjoy the beef carpaccio, thinly sliced and adorned with mustard, pickled mushrooms, and parmesan. However, it’s the pasta that truly shines and has diners raving.
The homemade gnocchi arrabbiata, served with a spicy smoked cherry tomato sauce, bursts with flavour, while the fusilloni alla genovese is a comforting triumph featuring an onion and beef ragù finished with pecorino sauce—a dish you’ll find yourself longing for again. Not to be missed is the lobster linguine, perfectly cooked with generous pieces of sweet lobster and just the right amount of sauce to enhance rather than overwhelm. It’s undoubtedly a standout dish worth revisiting.
No Italian meal is complete without dessert, and Pepe Cucina delivers with a tempting selection including tiramisu, bombolone alla crema, and a refreshing mango and passion fruit sorbet. To complement the meal, the restaurant offers a premium wine selection alongside innovative cocktails and mocktails that align perfectly with the Italian theme.
What’s on the Bill?
For a meal for two including drinks, starters, main courses, and dessert, expect to spend around Dhs650-700. Adding a bottle of wine will naturally increase the total, making it a flexible dining option for various occasions.
Verdict
In a city bustling with Italian restaurant openings, one may wonder what makes Pepe Cucina distinct. The answer lies in its exceptional pasta, which continues to linger in our minds long after the meal. When combined with its chic, cosy setting, relaxing atmosphere, and beautiful sea views, Pepe Cucina emerges as a new Italian favourite that’s not to be missed.
Location and Hours
Where: Pepe Cucina, Address Beach Resort, JBR, Dubai
When: Sunday, Friday-Saturday 1pm to 12am; Tuesday-Thursday 4pm to 12am; closed Mondays
Contact: @pepe.cucina