All the reasons you need and more to visit Isola Ristorante now that they’re back with the evergreen Sabato Live sessions
On the day Isola Ristorante brought back its Sabato Live sessions, complete with lively music by Mark Zitti, we found ourselves in Jumeirah’s outdoor haven ready for a taste of classic Italian.
The sun was dipping, signalling the start of gentler weather, and the setting couldn’t have been better suited—Isola’s open-air terrace was buzzing, with families, couples, and friends settling into the beat, laughter, and fresh autumn air.
We started with the Insalata di Polpo—a vibrant octopus salad with tender potatoes, bright Datterino tomatoes, and crisp celery. Each bite felt effortless and fresh, capturing a taste of summer. Right alongside, the Carpaccio di Branzino arrived as paper-thin slices of wild seabass, dotted with pine nuts and Taggiasca olives, delivering that wonderful mix of briny and nutty you hope for in every Italian seafood plate.
The memorable openers were soon after chased by a robust Costata di Manzo and a beautifully plated Branzino d’amo.
The ribeye was exactly as it should be—perfectly medium-rare, with the kind of tenderness and marbling that elevates a simple steak into an event. It came with a generous heap of rocket and shavings of Grana Padano for that perfect peppery, salty bite.
Meanwhile, the wild seabass was a surprise favourite: the escarole, pine nuts, and raisins added both sweetness and earthiness that complemented the fish’s clean, flaky texture. It was a clever twist that kept us coming back for more.
The contorni deserve their own mention, especially the Spinaci al Parmigiano, which came topped with a cloud-like Parmigiano foam that felt luxurious without being too heavy.
And the Peperonata Calabrese was an ideal rustic companion—a mix of fried potatoes, bell peppers, and tomato sauce with basil that added a hearty, comforting flavour to round out the meal.
Isola’s mixed drinks menu deserves high marks too, making it a versatile spot ideal for either a laid-back drink or an indulgent meal. Between the live music, warm crowd, and great food, Isola Ristorante has all the makings of a proper weekend escape. With views, vibes, and a menu that shines from start to finish, add it to your foodie to-do list!
For more information, visit isolarestaurant.com/dubai/menu/
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