A year after opening its doors in Abu Dhabi, Novikov is showing no signs of slowing down.
Nestled within The Galleria, the restaurant marks its first anniversary with a specially curated menu that showcases the flavours and attention to detail that have helped make it one of the capital’s most talked-about dining destinations.
Drawing inspiration from the original Novikov restaurant, which first welcomed guests in London’s Mayfair district in 2011, the Abu Dhabi venue blends contemporary elegance with unmistakable Italian-Mediterranean charm.
The bright, airy interior immediately creates a sense of occasion, while a soundtrack of classical Italian music adds an extra layer of authenticity to the experience.
A Refreshing Start
The celebration begins with the Novikola, a berry-forward creation inspired by the familiar flavours of Coca-Cola. Light, vibrant, and surprisingly sophisticated, it provides an enjoyable introduction to the meal while setting the tone for the courses that follow.
Fresh Flavours Take Centre Stage
To begin, beef carpaccio is served artistically alongside the classic Novikov burrata. The quality of the ingredients was immediately evident, with delicate slices of beef complemented by the freshness of the cheese, tomatoes, and peppery rocket.
Simple combinations are often the hardest to perfect, but the opening course strikes the right balance between elegance and flavour.
Comforting Italian Classics Done Right
The Mushroom and truffle risotto follows next and emerges as one of the dining highlights.
Smooth and luxurious without feeling overly rich, the dish allows both ingredients to shine, as the truffle enhances the earthy mushroom notes rather than overpowering them, creating a refined and beautifully measured plate.
A Main Course Worth Returning For
For the main event, the veal chop Milanese delivers exactly what fans of traditional Italian cooking would hope for.
Known in Italy as cotoletta alla milanese, the dish combines crisp textures with deep, savoury flavours that feel both comforting and satisfying.
Alongside this signature option, guests can also choose from other Novikov favourites, such as the grilled salmon fillet, Argentinian rib-eye steak, or baby chicken.
The Perfect Italian Finale
No Italian meal feels complete without tiramisu, and Novikov’s signature version does not disappoint. Drawing inspiration from the classic dessert associated with Treviso, it delivers familiar flavours in a contemporary and stylish presentation.
Paired with a double espresso to finish, it provides a fitting conclusion to an occasion that celebrates not just a milestone anniversary but a restaurant that continues to impress one year later in Abu Dhabi.
For further information and reservations, visit One Year of Novikov | Novikov Abu Dhabi.
Follow Secret Abu Dhabi for more news, events, and updates in the capital and beyond.
