Executive Chef Mauro Di Leo of Cinque at FIVE Palm Jumeirah hotel is offering guests a unique experience – a culinary journey to his homeland of Sicily through an exclusive 11-course tasting menu. Executive Chef Di Leo sources the finest ingredients himself from across the iconic Italian island when visiting. Through his ‘Chef’s Table’ experience, diners can indulge in authentic Sicilian dishes with Di Leo’s signature umami-infused twists, all while learning about the island’s food traditions and culture directly from the chef.
The intimate tasting menu is hosted by Di Leo himself, providing an opportunity for a small group of six to twelve guests to dine and interact directly with the chef. Dishes celebrating Sicilian cuisine and ingredients will include sea urchin panna cotta with seaweed gel and red prawn; seared Balfego tuna with scapece and pistachio; and blanched octopus with plankton, black rice and lemon foam. A highlight will be a risotto that melds Terre Nere winery’s grapes, grown in the fertile volcanic soil of Mount Etna, with the smoky richness of cheese.
Desserts continue the Sicilian journey, such as Modica chocolate pralines paired with Malvasia wine. The multi-course experience is designed to transport guests to the Italian island through the creative dishes, accompanying each with stories direct from Di Leo’s foraging. Diners can appreciate the complex layers of umami and regional nuances that influenced the chef in developing his signature style.
The intimate Chef’s Table experience complements Cinque’s award-winning reputation for redefining Italian dining. Located within the iconic FIVE Palm Jumeirah, the restaurant provides a vibrant setting overlooking the luxurious Palm luxury resort. Executive Chef Di Leo leads an innovative menu inspired by traditional flavors with contemporary touches. Through this special series, guests gain a first-hand cultural and culinary tour of Sicily not found elsewhere in Dubai.
Reservations for the exclusive Chef’s Table must be made at least 36 hours in advance due to limited availability. Pricing is AED650 per person for the 11-course menu or AED1,100 with Italian wine pairing. Diners can revel in the delights of Sicily through Di Leo’s personal storytelling and imaginative dishes. The launch shares a glimpse into the chef’s inspirations sourced directly from his travels to source unique produce for the cooking experience.
Cinque has earned recognition from critics including Gault&Millau and Gambero Rosso for its creative Italian cuisine. Part of Dubai’s luxury FIVE Palm Jumeirah, the restaurant welcomes diners for lively meals alongside stunning views of the skyline and pool area. Whether for fine dining or relaxed gatherings with friends, Cinque offers memorable culinary adventures under Di Leo’s leadership. Guests can now indulge in a special voyage to Sicily through this limited Chef’s Table experience, gaining insider access to one of Italy’s treasures through the eyes of an expert island chef.
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