Vera Versilia
Al Barsha, Dubai
Restaurant in Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Book with PearlThe Read
Dress
Smart Casual
Why go
Vera Versilia brings coastal Tuscan cooking to the second floor of Kempinski Mall of the Emirates in Dubai. Executive Chef Marco Garfagnini oversees a seafood-led Italian menu, with a Crudo Counter, handmade pasta and a separate private dining offering.
About Vera Versilia
Coastal Tuscany in Al Barsha
Vera Versilia is an Italian restaurant on the second floor of Kempinski Hotel Mall of the Emirates in Dubai's Al Barsha district. Its reference point is Versilia on the northern Tuscan coast, rather than a general collection of Italian regional dishes. Executive Chef Marco Garfagnini, originally from Carrara, directs the food. His background provides a specific link between the restaurant's coastal theme and its culinary leadership.
The main restaurant should be distinguished from Vera by the Pool, the related poolside venue. A restaurant reservation does not by itself establish access to pool facilities or a chalet.
Crudo and Handmade Pasta
Seafood anchors the concept, particularly at the chef-led Crudo Counter. Handmade pasta is another focus, supported by the Pasta Lab. Published lunch examples include seabass crudo, fusilli with baby squid, capers and olives, and grilled octopus with potatoes. These illustrate the kitchen's approach; individual set menus and seasonal offers can change.
The drinks selection includes Italian-inspired cocktails, wines and a vermouth trolley. For guests interested in cooking rather than simply ordering pasta, the restaurant also advertises guided pasta-making experiences. Those require a separate enquiry about dates and availability.
Choosing a Dining Format
Vera offers regular restaurant dining, business-lunch formats and private gatherings for up to twelve people. Its official contact page distinguishes smart-casual lunch attire from a more dressed-up evening standard. SevenRooms is the reservation route linked by the restaurant.
When booking, specify whether the priority is the main dining room, Crudo Counter, a private meal or a Pasta Lab activity. These are different experiences within the same restaurant concept. Guests with ingredient restrictions should discuss the intended menu directly rather than assume that every seafood or pasta preparation can be adapted.
World Culinary Awards recognition
Vera Versilia is the 2026 winner in Middle East's Best Italian Cuisine Restaurant 2026. These category awards are distinct from Michelin stars or an inspection-based numerical restaurant score.
The published voting rules distinguish public voters from verified industry voters, whose votes carry twice the weight. The award identifies a category winner rather than supplying a tasting score for every restaurant.
Sources and planning
Planning details
- Location
- Second Floor, Kempinski Hotel Mall of the Emirates, Sheikh Zayed Road, Al Barsha 1, Dubai
- Reservations
- Book on SevenRooms
- Website
- veraversilia.ae
- Phone
- +971 4 409 5111
Venue details
Ambiance
Refined Tuscan coastal ambiance with contemporary finesse, emphasizing elegance, warm service, and a sophisticated dining room experience.
Tags
Vibe
Best For
Experience
Sourcing
At the Table
- Dress Code
- Smart Casual
- Noise Level
- Conversational
- Service Style
- Upscale Casual
- Meal Pacing
- Standard
- Capacity
- Very Large
- Kitchen
- Modern
- Menu Format
- A la carte, Set menu, Counter dining
- Drinks Focus
- Wine, Cocktails
- Dietary
- Vegetarian friendly, Pescatarian friendly, Gluten-free options
- Private Dining
- Available
- Opened
- 2025
Signature Dishes
- Trenette Vera Versilia
- Tortelli Versilia
- Spaghetti alle Arselle
- Chef Seafood Tower
- Crudo Counter selections
Know before you go
Know Before You Go
- Getting there
- Second Floor, Kempinski Hotel Mall of the Emirates, Sheikh Zayed Road, Al Barsha 1, Dubai
Planning details
Location
Second Floor, Kempinski Hotel Mall of the Emirates, Sheikh Zayed Road, Al Barsha 1, Dubai · Directions
Recognition and awards
Explore Dubai
Around this place
Discover more on Pearl
Unlock the full Vera Versilia guide in Pearl, including awards, comparisons, FAQs, planning details, and nearby places.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
Where is Vera Versilia?
On the second floor of Kempinski Hotel Mall of the Emirates, Al Barsha, Dubai.
Who leads the kitchen?
Executive Chef Marco Garfagnini leads the coastal Italian restaurant.
Is private dining available?
The restaurant advertises private dining for up to twelve guests.
