Vera Versilia opens in Dubai, bringing a taste of Tuscany’s Versilian Riviera in “Grande Stile”

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (June 2025) — A new chapter in Dubai’s luxury dining and leisure scene has begun with the highly anticipated opening of Vera Versilia. Paying homage to the L’Arte di Vivere — the Italian “Art of Living” — the restaurant offers an immersive experience inspired by the timeless coastal charm of Tuscany’s iconic Versilian Riviera.

Vera is more than a destination — it’s a lifestyle. Drawing from the rich heritage of the region, Vera blends the art and culture of Pietrasanta, the famed Carrara marble, and the exuberant spirit of Forte dei Marmi’s fashion and culinary traditions. Nestled in the heart of Dubai, the venue transitions effortlessly from day to night, delivering a dining experience that is both cultured and relaxed.

The restaurant’s interiors evoke the sun-soaked beauty of Tuscany. Guests will find soft, sand-toned palettes, Carrara marble that gleams like seashells, and architectural forms inspired by the waves of the Versilian coast. Floor-to-ceiling windows flood the space with natural light, while curated artwork from Pietrasanta adds a poetic touch. From the terrace to the Chef’s crudo counter, every space is designed to reflect the soul of the Riviera.

At the helm of Vera’s culinary vision is Executive Chef Marco Garfagnini, a native of Versilia. His menu is rooted in traditional Tuscan flavors and elevated with modern finesse. Highlights include handmade pastas from the immersive Pasta Lab and elevated seafood dishes served at the crudo counter.

The menu features a refined selection of crudo, including Calvisius Caviar with blinis and condiments and the Chef’s signature Seafood Tower — a Sicilian array of red prawns, mazzancolle, violet prawns, langoustines and Gillardeau N2 oysters. Signature dishes include Trenette di Pesce, with fresh trenetta pasta and seafood, Dentice Rosso — a seared red snapper with smoked beurre blanc and Royal caviar — and Spaghetti alle Arselle, a garlic-and-chili cockle pasta made fresh in-house.

The beverage menu is equally rich and expressive, featuring a curated wine list and cocktails inspired by cities across Versilia. Options include the Viareggio — a vibrant vodka-based cocktail that reflects the town’s Carnival spirit — and the Barga, a refreshing mix with cucumber-lemon oil, lemon juice and bitters. A signature Vermouth trolley rounds out the offering, presenting imported Tuscan Vermouths and a selection of Vermentino wines for guests to explore.

“This is the cuisine of my roots, my memories and my identity,” said Chef Garfagnini. “To share the vibrant flavors of my home with Dubai is a dream. I’m proud to bring a piece of Versilia here — to surprise a city that already knows what excellence tastes like, and take that experience even further.”

Whether for a leisurely lunch or an elegant evening, Vera Versilia invites guests to discover the Riviera, served in grande stile.

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