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Marmellata Bakery

Abu Dhabi

A family affair pizzeria that’s become an Abu Dhabi institution

Capital gains: A pizzeria that isn’t New York or Napoli-inspired, Marmellata Bakery is 100% Abu Dhabi in its DNA. The charming, no-reservations restaurant located in the UAE capital’s waterfront Souk Al Mina, has become a real hub for pizza lovers, with customers lining up hours before opening time to ensure they secure a coveted slice. The off-menu selection is robust but runs out early.

More than pizza: Serving pies that combine traditional recipes with a modern approach, Marmellata Bakery is equally renowned for its focaccia, stuffed focaccia sandwiches and calzone. Popular choices include the rosemary focaccia stuffed with beef speck, stracciatella, rocket and truffle honey.

Prioritising local produce: The menu is focused on locally grown ingredients, including UAE-grown mushrooms from Below Farm, figs from Qattf in Liwa and locally produced burrata. The resulting signatures include the fig and gorgonzola pizza finished with roasted pistachios and dried flowers; artichokes, olives and anchovies; pepperoni with spicy honey; cheesy basil with burrata; and mushroom with kale and garlic confit.

A family affair: Led by Raj Dagstani, former director of operations For Thomas Keller in New York, the restaurant is family driven, with both his sons, Emile and Sebastian, also working there. Currently operating with a team of 25 dedicated employees that embody a style of hospitality that is both generous and authentic, Marmellata has become a place that feels like home to citizens, residents and visitors to Abu Dhabi.

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