Abu Dhabi: If you are in the mood to splurge on a sumptuous Italian dinner in a chic setting, BiCE at the Jumeirah Etihad Towers is your place. At this restaurant set in muted red, black and white with understated elegance, you don’t have to try too hard to impress a first date or a potential client. Just make sure your wallet is fat enough as a meal for two will cost around Dh1000 or more.
The service is impeccable. The staff is attentive but not intrusive. They are also helpful with suggestions in case you cannot make up your mind whether to stick to your favourites or get adventurous.
We knew what to begin with. Fritto di Calamari, Gamberi, Zucchine e Carciofi (fried calamari, prawns, zucchini and Artichokes) was served in a generous platter accompanied with spicy Arabiatta tomato sauce. We fought the temptation to indulge in the crispy starters because the Organic Burratta cheese with wild rucola marinated zucchini and mushroom was one of the best we have had. What arrived soon after - Misticanza con frutaa - was beyond anything that you will expect from a salad. Even my partner who is not a salad enthusiast, could not stop herself from raving about the fresh and crispy organic and bio salad with fresh fruits, balsamic vinegar and bread croutons.
I subscribe to the notion that no Italian meal is complete without a pasta (and here are lots to choose from). And the Linguine with shellfish and seafood with cherry tomatoe proved me right. The pasta was well cooked with an explosion of flavours, and if you are a seafood lover, this is your dish.
For the main course, my friend tried a breaded and pounded veal in the ‘Milanese’ style with aruguala and cherry tomatoe salad. The portion is huge and despite the taste and perfection in the presentation, she was unable to finish even half of it.
Our fantastic dining experience came to a sweet ending with a vanilla panacotta and a gooey chocolate fondant cake with vanilla ice cream.
Our ratings: Food 5, Ambience 5, value for money 5, Over all 5
We recommend: Misticanza con frutta, Linguine ai frutti di mare
Meal for two: Dh850 to 1200
Location: Podium level 1, Jumeirah Etihad Towers
Timing: 12pm to 3pm. 7pm to 11.30pm
For reservations, call 02 811 5666.
