Loona: A Taste of Italy in the Heart of Downtown Dubai

If you’re on the lookout for an authentic, sophisticated Italian dining experience in Dubai, look no further than Loona. Nestled in the bustling streets of Downtown Dubai, this Russian import has already garnered attention for its clean, high-quality take on Italian classics. With a strong reputation thanks to its parent restaurant in Moscow, Loona brings a unique twist on Italian food to the city, ensuring that the menu delivers more than just a meal—it offers a true culinary experience.

A Modern Ambiance with a Glimpse of the Burj Khalifa

Located on the ground floor of Vida Downtown Residences, Loona’s interior is as chic as it gets. The clean, open-plan design, bright lighting, and modern touches create an inviting atmosphere for any occasion, from business lunches to casual dinners with friends. The restaurant also features an open kitchen, allowing diners to catch a glimpse of chefs preparing fresh pasta and pizza dough from scratch.

Upon entering, you’re led to a table with a view of Burj Khalifa Boulevard, making it a perfect spot to watch the world go by while enjoying your meal. Whether you’re seated inside or on the terrace, the modern décor and laid-back vibes are guaranteed to elevate your dining experience.

The Menu: Simplicity and Quality Above All

Loona prides itself on serving “clean Italian food,” focusing on high-quality ingredients and classic dishes with a modern flair. The restaurant's menu offers a variety of Italian staples with a fresh, contemporary twist, from pizzas and pastas to risottos and more. The dough for the pizzas and pasta is made in-house daily, ensuring that each dish is as fresh as it is delicious.

Our dining experience started with a bowl of parmesan chips, perfectly paired with homemade hummus. This simple, yet delicious dish set the tone for what was to come. Next, we were treated to a dish of cauliflower carpaccio with parmesan and truffle—an unexpected and delightful surprise. It was, without a doubt, one of the freshest and most flavorful dishes I’ve had in Dubai. The aubergine with parmesan mousse that followed was equally delicious, but it was the cauliflower that truly stood out.

For the main course, we were served a trio of Italian classics: beef lasagne, porcini mushroom risotto, and a margherita pizza. Each dish was freshly made, and all were exceptional. However, it was the pizza that stole the show. The dough was perfectly soft yet crisp, and the tomato base was so fresh it was hard to stop eating. If you’re a pizza lover, Loona’s pizza is a must-try!

To end the meal, we indulged in a salted caramel tiramisu that was inspired by the head chef’s mother’s recipe. This dessert, bursting with irresistible flavor, was the perfect finish to our meal.

The Dilemma of Too Many Good Choices

Loona’s menu can be overwhelming with its variety of options, ranging from pizzas and pastas to salads and unique offerings like wild mushroom risotto. It’s a small dilemma, but the breadth of dishes can make it tricky to choose. Thankfully, our server, Julia, made excellent recommendations and guided us through the menu, ensuring we didn’t miss any of the standout dishes.

If you’re undecided, I highly recommend the cauliflower carpaccio and the pizza—both are excellent representations of Loona’s focus on quality and simplicity.

A Chat with the Chef

Head Chef Andrey Akimov is the mastermind behind Loona’s menu. Originally from Moscow, Akimov was inspired to cook by watching chefs like Gordon Ramsay on television. He learned his craft working at several Italian restaurants in Moscow and was eventually appointed sous chef at Loona in the Russian capital. Six months later, he found himself as the head chef of Loona’s Dubai location.

Akimov describes his cooking style as modern European with strong Italian influences. “It’s all about simplicity, quality ingredients, and balance,” he says. He’s a huge fan of using seasonal and local ingredients to create vibrant, fresh dishes. His favorite ingredient to cook with is mushrooms, which play a prominent role in many of the dishes on Loona’s menu, such as the porcini mushroom risotto and the wild mushroom risotto.

For those seeking a more traditional meal, Akimov recommends the beef lasagne and lamb patty with mashed potato and parmesan. Seafood lovers can indulge in the lobster pasta or octopus with tomato. And don’t miss the tiramisu—it’s a true standout dessert.

Final Thoughts

Loona offers a fresh, vibrant take on Italian classics, with a menu that delights at every turn. Whether you're in the mood for a comforting lasagne, a pizza with a perfectly fresh tomato base, or an unexpected cauliflower carpaccio, Loona promises to serve up a memorable dining experience. The stylish setting, exceptional food, and attentive service make Loona a great choice for anyone craving authentic Italian flavors with a modern twist.