Alici

On the sun-kissed shores of Bluewaters Island, just steps away from the iconic Ain Dubai, Alici delivers a slice of la dolce vita with effortless style. Inspired by the charm and simplicity of the Amalfi Coast, this seafood-centric restaurant offers one of the most authentic Italian dining experiences in Dubai, where the catch of the day meets artisanal craft and panoramic sea views.

Alici—Italian for “anchovies,” one of the Mediterranean’s most humble and flavorful treasures—is a celebration of southern Italian coastal cuisine, prepared with reverence for tradition and an obsession for freshness. The interiors reflect this ethos: bright, breezy, and artfully detailed, with hand-painted ceramics, marine-inspired touches, and an elegant terrace that looks out over the Arabian Gulf. It’s a space that feels as though it was plucked straight from Positano or Capri, yet perfectly at home in Dubai.

The kitchen places seafood at the forefront, with a menu that evolves daily based on availability and seasonality. Expect an exquisite crudo bar with options like red prawns from Sicily, yellowtail carpaccio, and fresh sea urchin, all served with minimal intervention to let the purity of flavor shine. 

Signature dishes include the spaghetti alle vongole, the risotto with Amalfi lemon and prawns, and the beloved grilled octopus with smoked potato cream—each one executed with finesse and the kind of restraint that defines true Italian cuisine. The catch of the day, displayed on ice and offered whole or filleted, is always a highlight, simply grilled and dressed with olive oil, lemon, and sea salt.

Complementing the food is an expertly curated wine list focused on Southern Italy, featuring labels from Campania, Puglia, and Sicily, as well as rare finds from niche Italian producers. The cocktail program is elegant and seasonally driven, offering spritz variations and Mediterranean-infused classics perfect for sundown sipping. 

Service at Alici is warm, intuitive, and deeply knowledgeable—bringing together the best of Italian hospitality and Dubai sophistication. The staff navigate the menu with ease, offering guidance that feels personal and never overbearing, enhancing the overall rhythm of the meal.

Whether you’re enjoying a long, sunlit lunch overlooking the sea, a romantic dinner under the stars, or a stylish weekend brunch, Alici delivers an experience that is as transportive as it is delicious. In a city where culinary experiences are often dramatic, Alici offers something more refined: a sense of place, culture, and coastal simplicity. 

For those in search of authentic Italian seafood in Dubai, paired with breathtaking views and soulful elegance, Alici is the essence of Southern Italy served à la Dubai.