Leonardo | Stella Di Mare Dubai Marina
On a pleasant evening at the end of March, we were invited for an incredible opportunity to sample a very special dinner at Leonardo Restaurant in Stella Di Mare Dubai Marina. This 4 course Italian dinner was curated by Michelin starred chef Matteo Rizzo from the Ristorante Il Desco fame and included some of his most creative dishes.
Almost like a museum dedicated to Leonardo Da Vinci, this restaurant, named after the great artist and visionary himself, features models of his famous works including The Flying Machine, Aerial Screw, Parachute and many more.
We started with a typical bread basket, featuring the warmest olive and onion foccacia, followed by the amuse bouche of foie gras with artichoke cream. Although I’m not a very big fan of foie gras, the artichoke cream was quite the interesting element. Next up was the starter of slow cooked egg served with siphon Montebore cheese foam, green asparagus, truffle and marinated egg. A very comforting dish, this was almost like a cross between an appetizer and soup, and something I could’ve eaten all night. The melange or truffle and cheese foam was in such perfect harmony with the egg, it activated every taste bud on our palates. The middle course featured a risotto with green peas and basil. Another comfort dish off the experience menu, this was certainly one to not miss. While I am not one to compare my creative mind with that of Michelin starred chefs, I believe the addition of mushrooms and truffle would’ve done wonders to this humble porridge. Our main course included a succulent portion of seabass placed on a bed of fennel cream and anise consomme. The very subtle spices brought out the delicate flavor of the fish, one that my plus one loved. I, on the other hand, often find myself obliged to try out fish based dishes only to find the smell too strong for my olfactory senses. I tried a piece or two, but gave the rest a miss. For the dessert course, we were offered a chocolate and olives cake paired with a similar tasting gelato. Very creamy, the gelato and pastry both were dotted with gritty pieces of olives, making it a rather unique albeit delicious combination. We finished it off with a petit four selection of nutty and fruity accents.
Leonardo
Location: Stella Di Mare Hotels & Resorts, Al Mattla’ee Street, Dubai Marina, Dubai
Contact: 04 5635555
