Rialto review: Italian glitz, glamour and a contender for the best burrata in town

Rialto, the flagship Italian restaurant located within Dubai’s opulent Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab hotel, has emerged as one of the most anticipated dining destinations in the city. Situated between two iconic landmarks—the Burj Al Arab and Jumeirah Beach Hotel—this five-star hotel, shaped like a superyacht, offers a unique blend of luxury and waterfront charm. Since opening to the public last year, it has drawn attention not only for its architectural splendor but also for its growing reputation as a top-tier culinary spot. The restaurant, Rialto, is designed to reflect the grandeur of traditional Italian dining experiences. Upon entering, visitors are greeted with a warm reception and an ambiance that exudes elegance. The dining area features an arched ceiling adorned with blue and gold lighting, creating a theatrical yet intimate setting. On a recent midweek visit, the space was already bustling with patrons, indicating strong interest in the establishment despite the day of the week. The culinary offerings at Rialto are curated by executive chef Roberto Rispoli, who hails from Pompeii. His menu showcases classic Italian flavors while incorporating modern touches. One of the standout starters is the yellowfin tuna carpaccio, priced at Dh180. Served with olive oil and black truffle, the dish is described as having a rich flavor and a melt-in-your-mouth texture that delights diners. The portion size allows for sharing, which proves fortunate when faced with such a tempting offering. Following the carpaccio, the fried red prawns and zucchini (Dh105) were served. While the crunchy coating paired well with the tender meat, some found the prawns lacking in depth of flavor compared to expectations. However, the subsequent dishes more than made up for this minor setback. The burrata, featured under the “tomato majesty” section of the menu, was highlighted as a must-try. Topped with tomato, basil pesto, and pistachios, the dish combined textures and flavors seamlessly, earning praise for both presentation and taste. Another highlight was the fresh fettuccine pasta with beef cheek and parmesan cream (Dh120). Recommended for sharing due to its generous serving, the dish offered a hearty and satisfying experience. The beef cheeks were perfectly cooked, complemented by the richness of the pasta and parmesan. The service added an extra layer of enjoyment, with the dish being presented theatrically at the table, enhancing the overall dining experience. As the meal progressed, the anticipation for dessert grew. The tiramisu, a classic Italian favorite, lived up to its reputation. Known for its delicate balance of coffee-soaked ladyfingers and mascarpone cream, the dessert was praised for its execution. While it might seem like an obvious choice, the quality of the preparation ensured it remained a highlight of the meal. Rialto appears poised to become a significant player in Dubai’s fine dining scene. With its combination of exquisite architecture, attentive service, and a menu that honors traditional Italian cuisine while offering contemporary twists, the restaurant is attracting both locals and international visitors. As the demand continues to grow, it remains to be seen whether Rialto will maintain its current level of excellence or face challenges in sustaining the high standards set by its opening. For now, however, it stands as a compelling reason to visit the Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab hotel, offering not just a meal but an immersive Italian experience in the heart of Dubai.