The random question: “What is your favourite cuisine?” often lands with the most probable answer: “It’s Italian.” A table booked at an Italian restaurant is considered a safe choice, particularly when talking business or meeting people with unknown preferences. Another reason to love cucina Italiana is the variety of amazing desserts paired with intensively fragrant espresso offered at the end of the evening.
The stereotype of mainstream Italian cuisine being pizzas and pastas in the mind of occasional restaurantgoers is being challenged by Michelin star chefs and savvy foodies who travel the world in a search for exclusivity. Imagine my astonishment when I discovered a fantastic place with authentic and experimental dishes right downtown.
The Artisan restaurant isn’t easy to find. Hidden away from the beaten track of the DIFC fancy dining, experience it’s located in Daman Tower, ten minutes walk from the stock exchange or a few minutes drive from Dubai Mall. If not for my friend’s recommendation, I would never ever find my way to this place. First pleasant surprise was free valet or self-parking with plenty of spots available.
A lift took me to the next level above retail, then a short walk through the door to the open space and there I was. The entrances, surrounded by a lush garden, lead into an open dining area accented with art and vintage looking mirrors. Dimmed lights contributed to a rather intimate atmosphere supported by home-like white tablecloths and wooden feel to the whole design. The greeting on arrival was short but very warm resulting in me being escorted to my table in a matter of seconds. Once seated, a very knowledgeable Evgeni was ready to guide me through the menu and suggest a suitable aperitivo.
“You must try a few of our appetisers and mains inspired by the sun of Tuscany and Florentine living,” he declared with a charming smile. “Our Milan-born chef Luca has spent so much time in Florence that he calls it home.” Evgeni’s voice sounded so convincing and reassuring that we moved away from the initial selection towards the dishes he recommended. “Please do order the main even if you are for the first time here and intend to share,” he added. “Our chef will blow you away.” I nodded in acceptance. 
I think we were lucky. Going out on Sunday nights delivers an unexpected advantage. Being a quiet night for hoteliers and restaurateurs in the Middle East we benefited from extra attention given by the team. Our bartender at the Artisan while chatting to me poured a huge serving of Stolichnaya into my mocktail without realizing it. Needless to say I was very very happy. 
What followed was the real food magic. Chef Luca locked away in the kitchen (I didn’t get a chance for a quick chat) served one amazing dish after another. My feast started by crunchy thin toasts of artisanal house baked bread and smoothest pate. Tuna tartar based on rapidly seared an exceptional cut of this tricky fish accompanied by funnel puree and a few secret ingredients was definitely my favourite. Shrimp tartar served with the sweetest creamy burrata and, surprise, deep fried fresh capers, was a combination I never tasted before. I’m not going to describe any of the mains, as you need to book a table and experience this place yourself. My words won’t do justice to chef Luca’s passionate creations.
Check The Artisan menus here.
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Life at Her Brightest 
I have been gone a while from your blog–sorry, but I will say after viewing the posts I missed, that I have never seen such an amazing assortment of things to eat, as you post here. Strangely enough, most of them look like healthy to eat as well. I watch for that. Looking forward to your next installment, Anna.
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