Fi’lia Dubai, the region’s female-led Italian restaurant, is effortlessly elegant from the moment you step in. On a sunny Sunday afternoon, we managed to snag a spot by the floor-to-ceiling windows, and the view alone set the tone for the La Cucina di Mamma brunch. Sunlight poured in, catching the warm wooden floors and the mix of sleek tables and cosy banquettes. Lush greenery and bold floral arrangements softened the space, while copper accents and gentle lighting added a subtle glow.
The airy layout somehow manages to feel both open and intimate, the perfect backdrop for their Michelin Guide–recognised cuisine, from firewood-grilled specials to handmade breads and fresh pasta. Sitting there, with the city outside and the rich aromas inside, prepare for a brunch that slows you down just enough to soak it all in.
Highlights
The bread basket arrives first, from soft focaccia brushed with olive oil to crisp pane carasau, all paired with the olive tapenade adds a briny depth that ties the selection together. The Tagliere misto lays out a generous mix of cheeses and cold cuts, where sharp Parmigiano cuts through the richness of prosciutto and salami, each bite pairing easily with a glass of grape.
The Burrata arrives with its creamy centre topped with shavings of fresh truffle. It is flavourful, with Maldon salt adding a final snap of seasoning. The Insalata mista refreshes with crisp vegetables, sunflower seeds, and a mustard dressing that adds a touch of sharpness without overpowering.
Served hot, the Zucchini frittata is light and soft, with a hint of mint running through it. It feels homely, an easy dish to appreciate. Cozze gratinate are baked mussels, golden with breadcrumbs. The lemon aioli brings brightness while parsley rounds the flavour. If the food doesn’t make you sway, the live Italian tunes in the background will.
Moving onto the next course, the Tonnarelli cacio e peppe is served authentically, carrying a glossy sauce of pecorino and black pepper. The heat from the pepper builds slowly, balanced by the cheese’s sharp saltiness. A parade of pizzas follows, shared in easy slices. The margherita holds its ground with a soft base, melted mozzarella and fresh basil. The pepperoni curls and crisps at the edges, its fat melting into the cheese and sauce, hard to resist, not that anyone is really trying.
For our choice of secondo piatto, we went for the Polpette di carne arrive nestled in a deep red marinara. The beef meatballs are tender enough to break with a fork, rich with seasoning, and their edges are slightly caramelised from the pan. Parmesan shavings melt into the sauce, while the sourdough bread soaks up what’s left behind. One of my personal favourites on the brunch menu.
The evening closes with the dessert trolley rolling up beautifully decorated. “Mamma’s favourites” come stacked and layered with creamy tiramisu and apple crumble, with a choice of toppings to choose from.
Book now
Sunday, from 12:30 pm-4pm. From AED299 per person. Visit website.