Localino - your go-to Italian cafe in Raha Beach

This hidden gem is located on the canal, and the bright yellow and sky blue décor give a fresh modern feel that would brighten the gloomiest of moods – especially when accompanied by delicious pizza, which (spoiler alert), it is!

The award-winning chef Shammi spent over a decade in Rome, perfecting his art (and his Italian!). His pizzas are not only loaded with delicious toppings, but the 72-hour fermented dough results in a crispy, light pizza that’s set to become a firm favourite among those in the know in Abu Dhabi.

Ordered by the slice or half tray, there are several varieties to choose from. We loved the Via Calabria (AED28/78) – be warned, the spicy nduja sausage gives quite a kick, as does Feel The Heat (AED28/78), generously topped with salami, sausage, and chilli. For those who prefer a little less spice, the pecorino, black pepper, and rocket combo of The One (AED26/68) is fresh tasting and feels sort of healthy – I need to justify that extra slice somehow!

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If you're looking for a sandwich that will keep you going until dinner and beyond, look no further than the roast beef (AED58), with several layers of tasty filling encased in crusty homemade bread, it's more than enough to share - though you might not want to!

Lasagne (AED78) is the ultimate comfort food and this one's flavourful and crispy in all the right places.

It goes perfectly with the Fig n’ Tale salad (AED58) which, clichéd as it sounds, is bursting with flavour with every bite. Again, the portions are huge so be prepared to leave laden with leftovers.

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No visit to an Italian eatery would be complete without sampling the tiramisu (AED38), and it did not disappoint. Light and airy with a smooth mascarpone cream, this would be perfect shared over a coffee while sitting on the terrace watching the world go by.

The bombolone (AED38 for 3) are also worth a special mention. Freshly baked and oozing with filling, these come in three delicious flavours: vanilla custard, lemon curd, and our personal favourite, pistachio.

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Localino means little place, but in Italy it is also a neighbourhood place to frequent and that’s exactly what you can do here. It is not in the slightest bit pretentious, just delicious food in a friendly and welcoming location.

There's a kids’ menu and dogs are welcome on the terrace.

Delivery available.

Location: On the canal, behind Al Reem Tower, Al Raha Beach

Timing: 12-10PM every day except Monday (closed)

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