A Symphony of Italian Flavours and Art: Dubai, October 2024
Please note that this is a long read, and I recommend you book a table for an evening at Belcanto before you decide to sit down with these words. Belcanto is a fine-dining Italian restaurant located on the rooftop of the Dubai Opera, offering a sophisticated blend of exceptional cuisine and live performances in a refined setting. Known for its creative, seasonal menus and immersive atmosphere, Belcanto is a culinary destination that celebrates the artistry of Italian flavors. It’s open Mon-Wed (6 pm to 12:30 am) and Thu-Sun (6 pm to 1:30 am).
But just imagine it. Say the two of you fell in love; you wouldn’t need to move. On a cold wintery night, he would cook for you, and you wouldn’t need to put on a coat.
(Joan Is Okay: Weike Wang, 2022)
Paint the town red: What hue resonates with you?
They said to break free, to love without inhibition or boundaries. And just like that, love blossomed, and we blossomed with it.
The ambiance is a celebration of luxury and romance, from the deep red hues of the plush carpets to the rich drapery cascading down the walls. A pair of grand chandeliers hang above, casting a soft, golden glow, highlighting every corner with warmth and opulence. Beneath its light, passion finds expression— through talent showcased just a stone’s throw away at Dubai Opera or through the culinary artistry inspired by the beauty and flavors of Italy. Every table is graced with a sole red carnation in a glass vase. Artistic serveware and subtle lighting complete the scene, creating a symphony of reds and warm tones that evoke shades of love, intimacy, and devotion.
Listen closely: What’s your love language?
She was more like a beauty queen from a movie scene; I said don't mind, but what do you mean, I am the one; Who will dance on the floor in the round?; She said I am the one, who will dance on the floor in the round. (Billie Jean)
The soft notes of “Billie Jean” drift through as someone at the next table hums along, their voice just as smooth as the burrata (BURRATA “BELCANTO”) resting before us—oh-so-creamy, a diner murmurs in delight. The in-house jazz band is on the stage, filling the air with soulful melodies. The pianist’s fingers dance across the keys while the bass and singer weave a tapestry of sound, serenading us with lines from “We’ve Only Just Begun”— “Good things might come to those who wait; Not for those who wait too late; We gotta go for all we know.” The ambiance brings to mind the Italian saying, Al cuore non si comanda—the heart cannot be commanded. Here, the music and the meal lead us, and we willingly follow, swayed by the moment's magic.
Break bread: How does love look on you?
We all fall in love; it looks uniquely different for each of us, right? In this space, love is painted in many hues, each vignette richer than the last.
A corner table is delicately adorned with fresh rose petals strewn across it like vibrant confetti. Here, a couple leans close, lost in a conversation that fills the air with unspoken warmth. Next to them, comfort and togetherness radiate—a family gathers, siblings animatedly discussing their ideal meal, debating whether to indulge in the familiar favorites or savor the rare flavors of the Menu al Tartufo Bianco/White Truffle menu. Their laughter and chatter fill the space with joyful energy, a reminder of the simple pleasures in life. At a large, stately table nearby, years of companionship and shared stories shine through—a group of adults, diverse in age and expression, perhaps longtime business associates or lifelong friends. They share a quiet yet profound camaraderie, one that doesn’t need words. As a basket of freshly baked bread arrives, with each warm, delicate bite melting like a whispered memory, crumbs are left behind—tiny fragments scattered across the plates, just like love in all its forms.
Garnish well: How would you embellish your love story?
Relationships deepen as the once mysterious becomes familiar, becoming a cherished part of our routine. The dishes here are much the same — complex, layered, yet irresistibly comforting.
Take the Venison Fillet with Hazelnut Crust (FILETTO DI CERVO IN CROSTA ALLE NOCCIOLE, BARBABIETOLA E TARTUFO BIANCO): the earthy, slightly musky depth of white truffle harmonizes beautifully with the gentle sweetness and vibrant color of beetroot. Each bite is rich, with the hazelnut crust adding a warm, nutty crunch to the tender venison. Then, the Ligurian-style Gratinated Lasagnette with Parmesan Foam and Basil Pesto (LASAGNETTE GRATINATE ALLA LIGURE E SPUMA DI PARMIGIANO REGGIANO) impresses with a silky, layered texture. The Parmesan foam melts luxuriously into the pasta, while the basil pesto adds a fresh, herbaceous finish. These flavors linger, each distinct but woven together—a reminder of how depth and familiarity enrich every bite.
Follow the heart: See where love takes you.
To view the tallest in the world, a reminder that amidst glitter and glamour, dreams and stars fill up the night skies.
Out on the terrace with Burj Khalifa shining through, we linger over scoops of indulgent desserts: rich chocolate, bold coffee, and Yuzu’s fresh zest. It’s the perfect finish to the evening—sweet, decadent. The soft strains of Retinopathy by Dale Dorsey fill the air, coaxing us to step indoors just once more, tempting us with one last melody before we say goodnight. Before leaving, we glimpse the private grape tasting room, a gem promising an intimate experience for next time. This final peek leaves us with a promise: to return and savor it all again, from the exquisite flavors to the enchanting atmosphere.
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Once Upon A Table is a series that will appear and disappear from time to time. A series that will be filled with anecdotes, reflections, questions, and observations. To become a part of it, drop us a line, at hello@purvagrover.com
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