Chic Nonna has established itself as one of the most loved Italian dining spots in Dubai’s DIFC. Known for its elegant setting, warm hospitality and refined Italian flavours, the restaurant offers a business lunch that has quickly become a go-to choice for professionals working in and around Gate Avenue Mall. With a menu that blends simplicity and sophistication, Chic Nonna delivers a midday dining experience that is both satisfying and memorable.
The restaurant combines a casual-luxury atmosphere with the comfort of traditional Italian cooking. Whether you want a quick lunch, a meeting-friendly space or a quiet moment away from the office rush, Chic Nonna provides a dining environment that feels welcoming and thoughtfully designed. Its business lunch, served Monday to Friday between noon and 2 pm, offers a well-balanced selection of starters, mains and desserts that reflect the essence of Italian cuisine.
Italian Dining in the Heart of DIFC
Chic Nonna’s interior captures the charm of Italy while still matching the energetic feel of DIFC. The space includes a main restaurant, an elegant bar and a relaxed lounge, giving diners the flexibility to choose the atmosphere that suits their needs. Warm lighting, polished finishes and a comfortable layout elevate the mood without feeling overly formal. It is the kind of setting where both business meetings and casual lunches feel equally appropriate.
The restaurant places strong emphasis on quality ingredients and authentic preparation. Every dish is designed with attention to detail, from presentation to flavour balance. This commitment is especially noticeable in the business lunch menu, which is built around fresh produce, comforting flavours and modern Italian touches.
Starters That Set the Tone
Chic Nonna’s business lunch begins with a selection of starters that are light, fresh and designed to prepare the palate for the mains.
Fresh Salads
The salads on the lunch menu feature crisp greens and seasonal ingredients, lightly dressed to highlight natural flavours. This is a refreshing option for diners who prefer to begin their meal on a healthier or lighter note. Despite being simple, the salad reflects the Italian philosophy of using good ingredients and letting them speak for themselves.
Pizza Marinara
Pizza lovers will appreciate the classic pizza marinara. It is crafted in true Neapolitan style with tomato, garlic, oregano and olive oil. The pizza is straightforward, but this simplicity is what makes it charming. The soft dough, tangy sauce and aromatic herbs create a comforting opening to the meal, especially for guests who enjoy familiar Italian flavours.
Cauliflower Soup
For guests seeking warmth and comfort, the cauliflower soup is a soothing start. Its smooth texture and delicate taste make it a dish that feels both light and satisfying. The soup’s balanced seasoning allows the natural sweetness of the cauliflower to shine, offering a gentle beginning to the meal.
Main Courses Full of Comfort and Character
Once the starters set the tone, the business lunch continues with a range of mains that highlight the depth and variety of Italian cuisine.
Veal Cheek
The veal cheek is slow-cooked until tender, creating a dish full of rich flavour. This is a classic example of Italian comfort cooking, where time and technique transform simple ingredients into something memorable. The veal cheek is ideal for diners who want a hearty, warming dish that does not feel too heavy for a midday meal.
Fregola
Fregola is a Sardinian pasta made of small toasted semolina pearls. It has a texture that is slightly chewy and uniquely enjoyable. This dish stands out on the menu because it is not commonly found in business lunch offerings around Dubai. Prepared with fresh ingredients and a balanced seasoning profile, fregola delivers a satisfying main course that appeals to guests looking for something different from the usual pasta dishes.
Monkfish
Seafood lovers will appreciate the monkfish option. Monkfish has a firm texture and a mild flavour, making it ideal for Italian-style preparations. It offers a lighter yet fulfilling main course that fits perfectly in a business lunch, particularly for those who want a dish that energises without feeling overly indulgent. The monkfish is cooked with precision, ensuring that each bite feels well-balanced and fresh.
Desserts for a Sweet Finish
Although the business lunch officially includes two courses, Chic Nonna gives diners the option to enjoy dessert as an add-on. The dessert choices remain simple but beautifully crafted.
Hazelnut Gelato
The hazelnut gelato is creamy and rich, capturing the essence of roasted hazelnuts in every spoonful. It delivers a classic Italian sweetness that complements the meal without overwhelming the palate. The texture is smooth and indulgent, making it an excellent finale for those who enjoy traditional Italian desserts.
Pineapple Carpaccio
For guests who prefer something fresh, the pineapple carpaccio is a wonderful option. Thinly sliced pineapple arranged with precision creates a clean, vibrant finish to the meal. This dessert feels refreshing, light and ideal for those who want something sweet without leaning into richness.
A Great Value Lunch in DIFC
Priced at Dhs150 for a starter and main, Chic Nonna’s business lunch offers strong value in a dining district known for premium pricing. The experience combines quality, atmosphere and authentic Italian cooking at a price point that feels accessible for regular weekday dining.
The portions are well-balanced, and each dish feels thoughtfully curated to deliver flavour without compromising on presentation. This makes the lunch ideal for clients, colleagues and solo diners seeking a high-quality meal in a refined environment.
The central location inside Gate Avenue Mall also makes Chic Nonna convenient for those working in DIFC. Whether the goal is a quick lunch or a relaxed conversation, the restaurant manages to provide an experience that feels both elevated and efficient.
Why Chic Nonna is Becoming a Lunchtime Favourite
Ideal for Meetings and Networking
The restaurant’s layout and atmosphere make it suitable for different types of business gatherings. The dining room works well for meetings that require focus, while the lounge and bar areas offer a more casual feel for networking or team lunches. This flexibility is one of the reasons professionals continue to choose Chic Nonna during their workday.
Consistent Quality in Food and Service
Consistency is important for repeat diners, and Chic Nonna excels in delivering dependable quality. The food arrives with strong presentation and rich flavour, while the service remains attentive without being intrusive. This reliability makes the restaurant a trusted choice for those who want a pleasant, smooth dining experience.
Balanced Menu Without Overcomplicating Choices
The business lunch menu is curated thoughtfully. Instead of offering too many options, Chic Nonna focuses on dishes that represent Italian cooking authentically. Each selection feels intentional, well-prepared and satisfying, allowing guests to enjoy a refined meal without feeling overwhelmed by choices.
Conclusion
Chic Nonna brings a warm and refined Italian touch to the busy DIFC lunch scene. With well-crafted starters, comforting mains and refreshing desserts, the restaurant offers a weekday dining experience that blends quality with accessibility. The business lunch is designed to be efficient yet memorable, making it a perfect choice for professionals who want to enjoy good food while balancing their work schedule.
With its thoughtful menu, elegant atmosphere and consistent service, Chic Nonna continues to grow as one of DIFC’s most reliable and enjoyable places for a midday meal. It combines the heart of traditional Italian cuisine with the modern energy of Dubai, creating a lunch experience that feels both refreshing and fulfilling.
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