Valentines’ Day has arrived again and we head to the Marina for a Bellavista Valentine’s. We dress up and head out for a night together. Always meaning to be better at arranging ‘date nights’ I left tonight a bit late to book but now that it’s here, I’m glad we have something locked in.
As we arrive at Bellavista, a well known Italian local in the Dubai Marina, I am greeted with a long stem rose. We are treated to a welcome drink as we are seated.
Once at our table we take a few moments to take in the view. Right opposite the Cayan Tower with views of the northern Dubai Marina and over to the new Dubai Harbour, Bellavista at Grosvenor House is an Italian culinary hotspot. The menu showcases the true taste of Italy with new contemporary complimenting authentic and honest cuisine. With a serene atmosphere and warm service on the stunning terrace we settle in for an al fresco lounge dining experience.
Our appetizers and prosecco are served promptly. The burrata caprese is creamy, paired with traditional tomato and pesto. The calamari is fresh and light while the carpaccio is perfectly balanced with hints of truffle, parmesan and balsamic.
Our evening progresses and we sit back to enjoy a glass of wine or two, our meal and each other’s company, without the usual pressures of the day to deal with. The setting is indeed relaxing and there is a sense of occasion tonight. The terrace is lit up and decorated beautifully. Other couples arrive for a romantic evening in order to enjoy the delightful Italian fare and attentive service.
Primi arrives and our main dish is linguini black all’astice, a black linguine pasta with lobster in a tomato, garlic and chilli sauce. It is good but perhaps not as flavourful as it should be for such a simple dish.
When our secondi of grilled king prawns with bisque honey glaze arrives my mouth waters. The prawns are juicy and tender and the spicy beetroot salad with feta is the perfect accompaniment.
The setting on the terrace really is quite lovely. The lights of the Dubai Marina dance on the water and the pool nearby. It’s too cold tonight to think of swimming. However, I could definitely be tempted to return on a nice sunny afternoon. The pool looks lovely and the pool side menu could be worth checking out.
After a top up (or two) of prosecco and our lovely meal, dessert arrives. The beautifully presented heart lime cheesecake melts in my mouth. Juniper crumble, rose-raspberry coulis and mixed berries accompany the cheesecake. I’m not sure that I can detect any juniper in the crumble or rose in the coulis for that matter. Nevertheless it satisfies my desire for something sweet to finish off with.
We give the Aperol Spritz bar a miss tonight. I am lucky enough to head home with a Valentine’s chocolate gift box and a beautiful long stem rose. They keep me smiling for a few days afterwards. Happy Valentine’s Day!
Good To Know
Bellavisa is located within Grosvenor House at the Dubai Marina. Bookings are recommended generally and are essential on special occasions.
Would I Return?
Yes. Bellavista delivers on its promise of contemporary Italian fare with authentic flavours.
