We covet the very, very good squid ink tagliolini, a lovely thin ribbon pasta, similar to linguine, and awash with squid, scallops, prawns and lobster. This rich, delicious pasta should be a heavy dish, but manages a lightness that makes it perfect to share for lunch or dinner (AED110 single/AED185 sharing). For something simple and delicious, it’s worth trying the mafaldine (AED80)with pesto and creamy stracciatella cheese - this is also a dish kids can get on board with!

It’s not Antonia without pizza and we recommend a board or a half board with whatever’s coming out of the kitchen. Antonia pizza has a natural sourdough base, with a 72 hour rise which makes it light, but chewy and crispy in all the right places. The pizza classiche has the best version of all your favourites, but the gourmet options are also good - the gricia with caramelised onion and pancetta is absolutely superb (AED60 half, AED110 full). The pizza counter is conveniently located just inside the entrance, so if you don’t have time for a sit-down, you can get a box to take away.

The best thing about Antonia Chic is that unlike other new openings that take so much time to really hit their straps, the food loses none of the charm we know and love and service is seamless: if you’re an Antonia enthusiast, you’ll recognise some familiar faces from other branches. We’ve dined in both at lunchtime and in the evening and seen tables come and go within a ‘lunch hour’ and enjoyed a more leisurely dinner. 

This is a great addition to both the Galleria and the Antonia brand. According to almost everyone on the team from the top down, the success of Antonia lies in the constant training, care and attention to detail: they’re aware of how brutal the market can be and are intent on keeping standards high. The team clearly enjoys working together and day in, day out, are producing an experience to be proud of.

It's more grown up, but no less attractive than the other branches. Another job well done!