Fans of Fouquet’s Abu Dhabi will want to hear this

Groupe Barrière will open Paradiso Nicole et Pierre later this month.

Two words to describe Groupe Barrière’s current trajectory? World domination, of course. Besides running hotels, casinos, clubs, golf courses and more, the group is gearing up to open Paradiso Nicole et Pierre on Yas Bay Waterfront in Abu Dhabi later this month. And considering the success of Fouquet’s Abu Dhabi, foodies across the capital are understandably excited.

A celebration of life helmed by the culinary sensation Nicole Rubi – the talent behind La Petite Maison – and triple Michelin star Chef Pierre Gagnaire, the new restaurant will pay homage to Italy, the Mediterranean and the world of cinema, extending its welcoming ambience from the famous Croisette to the shores of Yas Bay. With an extensive terrace and sun-drenched décor designed by Vudafieri-Saverino Partners, Paradiso is set to become a must-visit in the culinary scene of Abu Dhabi.

Here, the menu will feature gourmet dishes that not only use, but also reinvent local flavours, focusing on seasonal products and showcasing some of the Mediterranean’s most legendary recipes – read: Nicole’s petits farcis and her famous escargots, the cauliflower bavardoise from the antipasti selection, and the best of Paradiso’s signature pizze, and lamb shoulder preserved with spices made to share with love. And if you’re not exactly one to share, the restaurant boasts an exquisite pasta selection and mains like Nicole’s Roasted Young Cockerel or the grilled prime rib of beef. The accompanying wine list embraces an equally wide choice, ranging from small producers in Italy to prestigious estates in France.

Elsewhere, mixologist Emanuel Balestra – who is responsible for Hotel Majestic Barrière and a bit of a nature enthusiast – has used his impressive know-how to create the array of beverages. After scouring wonderful establishments in all four corners of the world, this likeable Italian laid out his spoons and shakers at this exciting new hotspot to create signature cocktails and mocktails with a confectionery taste, extracting the essence of flavours to create subtle blends in his glasses. And if you’re dining at Paradiso on a Thursday or Friday evening, you can expect a side of live music to go with your meal. As for the setting?

Elegant yet relaxed, courtesy of Milan-based architects and interior designers Tiziano Vudafieri and Claudio Saverino, who have designed the boutiques of some of the world’s leading luxury brands. True foodies themselves, they have also created several restaurant concepts themselves. For Paradiso Nicole et Pierre, the two have created a Mediterranean-chic atmosphere in the interior dining room. Meanwhile, the green of olive and sage leaves pair with the vibrant shades of citrus fruit on the verdant terrace, accented with the likes of rattan and stone. And because of the storied links that exist between the Majestic and the world of cinema, wallpaper recreating a map of the Mediterranean and movies that have been filmed around the region will set the scene – no pun intended.

GO: Visit www.paradisoabudhabi.com for more information.