Margherita

Wondering the pavements of JBR trying to decide what to have for dinner, we were pleasantly surprised when we came across this new little Italian restaurant right opposite Bauhaus called Margherita. Its warm and inviting atmosphere beckoned us to come in. We were lucky to even find a spot; it was completely occupied inside and outside giving Napoletana and La Dolce Vita a run for their money.

The waiters were extremely friendly, helpful and quite patient with us as we decided what we were going to eat. Looking at the menu it looked intriguing, it was in the form of a short book and had a few empty pages here and there allowing for customers to write comments, draw or even jot down a recipe or two.

We ordered three appetizers, Grilled calamari, Burrata cheese and a Bruschetta. The grilled calamari and the Bruschetta were pleasant enough, nothing I would order again. The Burrata on the other hand was divine with a side of salad and tomatoes that complemented it very well.

As usual I was the last one to order, I finally decided to take a risk and try out a plate called Crespolini which is basically like an Italian Burrito. A crepe filled with spinach and cheese and submerged in Parmesan sauce. The plate itself looked quite appetizing, but unfortunately I was not a big fan of the taste. It was overloaded with spinach and did not have too much flavor. On a positive note, after eating such a plate one would assume that being able to breathe was not an option, but actually it was quite light and not heavy at all. 

Even though my experience was not the best, I am sure that I will be back very soon for the Burrata and to try out other dishes. I would recommend the Pizzas (Bresaola and the Bianca Salmone), they were quite a hit on our table, and the grilled chicken (Polleto Alla Griglia).If you do end up trying the restaurant you will be in for a little treat, they have tombola where you have the chance of winning a free dish. While we were there a table of 21 people won, you could be next.

The Bill ( For 5):

Grilled Calamari (AED 69)

Burrata Cheese (AED 120)

Bruschetta Classica (AED 38)

Pizza Bresaola (AED 70)

Pizza Bianca Salmone (AED79)

Crespolini (AED 67)

Polleto Alla Griglia x2 (AED 98 each)

Minted Lemon (AED 22)

Diet Pepsi (AED 14)

7 UP (AED 14)

Water (AED 20)

Total: AED 709 (Around 150 DHS per person)