Eataly is more than a restaurant—it’s a full Italian food experience. When you walk in, you’re greeted by the smell of freshly baked bread, simmering pasta sauces, and roasted meats. It feels like stepping into a lively Italian town square, right in the heart of the UAE.
Eataly is a well-known global brand that brings together high-quality Italian food, drinks, and groceries in one place. Inside, you’ll find multiple restaurants, food counters, a bakery, grocery sections, and even cooking classes—all designed to celebrate real Italian cooking and culture.
In the UAE, Eataly has become a favorite spot for people who enjoy authentic Italian flavors. Whether you’re stopping by for a quick coffee, shopping for Italian ingredients, or sitting down for a full meal, Eataly offers something special.
This guide will walk you through what to expect at Eataly UAE. We’ll cover the concept, the dining options, and the typical menu prices in AED. You’ll also learn about the atmosphere, a real visitor’s experience, and how to find an Eataly branch near you.
Where Eataly Began
The Eataly story began in Turin, Italy, in 2007, when its founder, Oscar Farinetti, opened the first store. His vision was simple but ambitious: to create a place where people could eat, shop, and learn about high-quality Italian food all in one vibrant space. Eataly aimed to celebrate Italian biodiversity and the skilled producers behind the ingredients.
The concept quickly caught on, leading to expansion across Italy and then internationally. Eataly brought its unique marketplace model to major cities around the globe, including destinations like New York, Tokyo, and eventually, finding a natural home for its love of good food here in the United Arab Emirates.
Ambiance and Dining Experience
The atmosphere at Eataly UAE is one of its biggest highlights. It feels just like a lively Italian market—busy, energetic, and full of great smells and sights. The space is open and always active, with people dining, shopping for Italian groceries, sipping coffee, or watching chefs cook in the open kitchens.
Your senses stay engaged the whole time. You can smell the wood-fired pizza, see fresh produce and baked goods on display, and hear people chatting and plates clinking. It’s a place that feels alive.
Service depends on where you are inside. Sit-down spots like La Pizza & La Pasta offer full table service. If you go to the coffee bar or gelato counter, you order and pay directly. The staff are friendly and usually know a lot about the food and ingredients.
Overall, it’s a casual and vibrant place—not quiet or formal. It’s perfect if you want to enjoy the flavors and feel of real Italian food culture in an interactive way.
Eataly UAE Menu
Eataly in the UAE follows the same philosophy as its global locations: serve fresh, seasonal, and top-quality ingredients, all prepared using traditional Italian cooking methods. It’s not just one menu—it’s a variety of menus spread across different food counters and dining areas inside the Eataly marketplace.
Each section focuses on a specific type of Italian food, giving you plenty of choices—from handmade pasta and wood-fired pizza to seafood, grilled meats, and desserts.
Below is a breakdown of the main dining areas and the average price ranges you can expect in UAE Dirhams (AED). Keep in mind that these are estimated prices and may vary slightly depending on the branch or special promotions.
Alla Pala (Roman-Style Pizza)
| Item | Price (AED) |
|---|---|
| Classic Margherita | 26 |
| Fresh Tomato and Mozzarella Sorrento | 32 |
| Parmigiana | 32 |
| Capricciosa | 34 |
| Spicy Salami | 32 |
| Aglio E Olio | 26 |
Antipasti / Appetizers
| Item | Price (AED) |
|---|---|
| Fried Calamari | 69 |
| Arancino ai Funghi | 49 |
| Roasted Tomato Soup | 39 |
| Baby Octopus Stew | 64 |
| Garlic Bread | 24 |
| Classic Bruschetta | 46 |
| Potato Chips | 32 |
| Potato Croquettes | 44 |
| Cheese Bread | 26 |
Insalate / Salads
| Item | Price (AED) |
|---|---|
| Bresaola Parmesan Cheese and Arugula | 64 |
| Burrata | 79 |
| Caesar Salad | 59 |
| Goat Cheese Salad | 64 |
La Pizza (Neapolitan-Style Pizza)
| Item | Price (AED) |
|---|---|
| Classic Margherita | 72 |
| Wagyu Coppa | 89 |
| Spicy Salami | 76 |
| Bufala | 84 |
| Margherita Double Cheese | 81 |
| Pizza Spicy Tuna | 86 |
| Four Cheese Pizza | 79 |
| Pizza Grilled Vegetables | 69 |
| Pizza Marinated Tomatoes & Burrata | 76 |
La Pasta
| Item | Price (AED) |
|---|---|
| Rigatoni Bolognese Sauce | 84 |
| Spaghetto di Eataly | 71 |
| Classic Lasagna | 81 |
| Penne with Basil Pesto | 68 |
| Ravioli Capresi with Burrata | 81 |
| Rigatoni Arrabbiata | 69 |
| Penne Mushroom Sauce | 86 |
| Veal Ragu Pappardelle | 89 |
| Garlic and Oil | 62 |
Secondi / Main Courses
| Item | Price (AED) |
|---|---|
| Veal Milanese | 149 |
| Chargrilled Chicken | 99 |
| Grilled Salmon | 106 |
| Grilled Seabass | 109 |
| Chargrilled Veal Ribs | 359 |
Bakery
| Item | Price (AED) |
|---|---|
| Focaccia Rosemary | 16 |
| Focaccia Olives and Onion | 16 |
| Focaccia Pomodorini | 16 |
Pasticceria / Pastry
| Item | Price (AED) |
|---|---|
| Tiramisu | 39 |
| Cannolo Siciliano | 29 |
| Cheesecake Alle Fragole | 34 |
| I Pasticcini (6 pcs) | 44 |
| Café Guanaja | 42 |
| Panna Cotta | 31 |
| Maritozzo Pistachio | 36 |
| Apricot Country Pie | 32 |
| Crostata Fragole | 34 |
| Dates Tiramisu | 44 |
| Charlotte | 36 |
| Éclair Siciliano | 24 |
| Torta Victoria | 39 |
| Mirtillo Ciocolato | 39 |
| Crostata ai Mirtilli | 34 |
| Crumble di Mele | 29 |
| Diplomatico Fragole | 31 |
Eataly in the UAE is more than just a place to eat. It’s a full Italian food market where you can watch chefs make fresh pasta, see mozzarella being stretched by hand, and explore shelves filled with imported Italian products like pasta, sauces, olive oils, vinegars, and sweets. There’s also a dedicated counter for cheese and cold cuts, plus a wine shop featuring Italian wines.
Sometimes, they also host cooking classes or food tasting events. These extras make each visit not just a meal—but a fun and educational Italian food experience. This hands-on, immersive setup is what makes Eataly stand out.
Why People Love Eataly in the UAE
Eataly has gained a dedicated following in the UAE for several compelling reasons:
- Unique Marketplace Concept: It offers a truly different experience than a standard restaurant – you can dine, shop, and explore.
- Authentic Quality: They prioritize high-quality, often imported Italian ingredients, providing a taste of genuine Italian cuisine.
- Incredible Variety: With multiple dining areas and a vast retail section, there’s something to appeal to every taste and interest.
- Vibrant Atmosphere: The lively, bustling environment makes for an exciting and engaging visit.
- Good for Groups & Families: The casual yet quality setting accommodates different group sizes and ages well.
- Value for Quality: While not the cheapest dining option, many feel the Eataly menu prices in UAE are justified by the quality of ingredients and the overall unique experience.
My Experience
My visit to Eataly UAE was a treat for the senses. As I walked through the marketplace area, I loved seeing the displays of pasta, olive oil, and fresh produce. The aromas from the different cooking stations were enticing.
I decided to eat at the La Pizza & La Pasta section and ordered the Tagliatelle al Ragù and a glass of Italian red wine. The pasta was clearly fresh and had a perfect texture. The ragù was rich and flavorful, tasting authentically homemade. The wine complemented the dish beautifully.
The lively atmosphere added to the experience – it felt dynamic and fun to be surrounded by so much food activity. The service at the table was attentive and friendly. What stood out was the freshness and quality of the ingredients; it elevated a simple pasta dish into something truly delicious. While the price point is higher than a casual cafe, I felt the quality and the overall experience made it worthwhile.
My Top 4 Eataly Picks in UAE:
If you visit Eataly, here are four things I highly recommend trying:
- Any Fresh Pasta Dish from La Pizza & La Pasta: The pasta made in-house is a highlight. Pick your favorite sauce; the texture of the fresh pasta is superb.
- Margherita Pizza: A true test of an Italian kitchen. Eataly’s uses quality ingredients and has a great crust from the wood oven. Simple perfection.
- Pistachio Gelato: Their gelato is made with high-quality ingredients and the Pistachio flavor is often incredibly rich and authentic. A must-try dessert.
- A Bottle of High-Quality Olive Oil or Balsamic Vinegar from the Retail Section: Take a piece of Eataly home! The selection is vast, and investing in a good bottle can elevate your own cooking.
Eataly Branches in UAE
| Location | Address | Operating Hours | Phone Number |
|---|---|---|---|
| Eataly Dubai Mall | Lower Ground Level, Dubai Mall, Dubai | Weekdays: 9:00 AM – 12:00 AM Weekends: 9:00 AM – 1:00 AM Restaurant & Retail Shop (Ramadan): 10:00 AM – 2:00 AM | +971 4 330 8899 |
| Eataly Dubai Hills Mall | Ground Floor, Dubai Hills Mall, Dubai | Weekdays: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM Weekends: 10:00 AM – 12:00 AM | +971 4 330 8899 |
Conclusion
Eataly offers a truly unique and delightful experience in the UAE, going beyond simple dining to immerse you in the rich world of Italian food culture. It’s a place where you can savor authentic dishes, explore high-quality ingredients, and enjoy a lively, market-like atmosphere.
While the Eataly menu prices in UAE reflect the quality of the imported products and the authentic preparation, the experience offers excellent value for food enthusiasts and those seeking a genuine taste of Italy.
Whether you plan to sit down for a full meal at one of their restaurants, grab a quick coffee and pastry, or fill your basket with Italian pantry staples, Eataly provides a memorable journey.
I’m passionate about food and the rich culture of the UAE. I’ve spent years exploring authentic Emirati dishes and diverse cuisines from across the region. Through Habibi Menus, I want to make it easy for everyone to discover real restaurant menus, learn about traditional flavors, and enjoy the best food the UAE has to offer. I focus on sharing clear, simple, and helpful information so everyone can understand and enjoy the local food culture. When I’m not working on the site, I love visiting new restaurants and trying different dishes with my family and friends.