Autumn has arrived at Taste of Italy by Heinz Beck, bringing with it a brunch menu that captures the warmth and rusticity of the Italian countryside. Under the guidance of Michelin-starred chef Heinz Beck, the Dubai-based restaurant has crafted a seasonal offering that pairs time-honoured Italian recipes with the rich, earthy flavours that define the cooler months.
For Australian travellers planning a long-haul escape to the Gulf, or locals who follow the rhythm of European culinary seasons, this brunch offers a chance to indulge in dishes that feel both nostalgic and refined. The menu leans into ingredients that evoke foggy mornings in Tuscany and chestnut festivals in Piedmont, presented within the casual gourmet deli setting that defines the venue.
The new brunch draws directly from the agricultural calendar of northern and central Italy, where autumn is synonymous with the harvest. Pumpkins, porcini mushrooms, and chestnuts take centre stage across antipasti, primi, and dolci, each prepared with the precision that defines Beck's career. The menu is designed to be shared, encouraging diners to sample multiple plates in the spirit of a true Italian feast.
In Dubai's competitive dining scene, where brunch is practically a national pastime, Taste of Italy distinguishes itself by refusing to dilute its regional roots. Australians who have spent time in Rome or Florence will recognise the cadence of these dishes immediately, and Melbourne brunch regulars in particular will appreciate the emphasis on leisurely, multi-course eating that prioritises conversation over rushing through courses.
Few ingredients capture the essence of Italian autumn quite like roasted chestnuts. At Taste of Italy, they appear throughout the brunch service. Warm chestnuts are offered as a welcome nibble, their papery skins crackling as diners crack them open. They also find their way into rustic antipasti, paired with creamy mountain cheeses and slices of cured pancetta.
The kitchen treats chestnuts with reverence, roasting them over open flame until the flesh turns tender and sweet. A chestnut and lentil salad appears alongside the antipasti selection, dressed with extra virgin olive oil and aged balsamic. The combination of smoky, nutty chestnuts with the peppery bite of fresh rocket transports guests straight to a Sunday market in Piedmont.
For Australians who associate chestnuts with the festive season rather than daily dining, Sydney and Melbourne foodies will appreciate the restaurant's dedication to sourcing authentic European ingredients. Once cooler weather arrives locally, these specialties become highly sought after at importers across Paddy's Market and Queen Victoria Market.
Pumpkin risotto is a classic of northern Italian home cooking, but at Taste of Italy, the dish receives the refinement expected of a Michelin-trained kitchen. The rice is cooked al dente in a rich vegetable stock, with chunks of roasted butternut squash folded through at the last moment. A generous handful of Parmigiano-Reggiano and a knob of butter create the signature mantecatura that gives risotto its glossy finish.
What sets this version apart is the addition of amaretti crumbs and a drizzle of sage-infused oil. The sweet, biscuit-like crumble cuts through the richness of the squash, while the sage adds an earthy depth that lingers on the palate. It is comfort food elevated to fine dining, served in portions generous enough to anchor a leisurely weekend meal alongside other shared plates.
The risotto arrives in a wide, shallow bowl, allowing the vibrant orange of the pumpkin to contrast with the deep green of the sage oil. It pairs beautifully with a glass of Soave or a light Chianti from the curated beverage list, both of which complement the dish's nutty sweetness.
Beyond the risotto, the brunch features a rotating selection of mains that lean into autumnal comfort. Slow-braised osso buco, herb-crusted lamb, and a rich mushroom lasagna make appearances, each designed to be sliced and shared family-style. The deli setting means that cured meats, fresh breads, and aged cheeses remain within easy reach throughout the meal, encouraging guests to build their own boards between courses.
The restaurant's retail corner extends naturally into the dining experience. Loaves of pane di Altamura and focaccia arrive warm from the oven, perfect for mopping up sauces or building impromptu sandwiches between courses. Guests can browse shelves stocked with olive oils, aged balsamic, and seasonal preserves that echo flavours found on their plates.
This seamless blend of restaurant and market has made Taste of Italy a favourite among Dubai residents and visitors alike, offering a slice of Italian daily life that feels far removed from typical hotel brunch buffets.
No Italian brunch would be complete without a dedicated section for sweets, and the autumn menu delivers in abundance. Pastries filled with chestnut cream, miniature pumpkin tarts, and warm apple strudel line the dessert station. The gelato counter, a hallmark of the restaurant, features seasonal flavours including roasted chestnut, cinnamon pumpkin, and stracciatella with a hint of cardamom.
Many of these treats are available for purchase in the adjoining retail space, allowing guests to bring a taste of the brunch home with them. Beautifully packaged boxes of biscotti, panettone, and candied chestnuts make thoughtful gifts, particularly for hosts who appreciate authentic Italian confectionery. The retail selection rotates with the seasons, ensuring that regular visitors always find something new to discover.
The autumn brunch is served on weekends, with seatings available from late morning through early afternoon. Reservations are strongly recommended, particularly during peak season when Dubai welcomes visitors escaping colder climates elsewhere. Business lunch options and private dining arrangements remain available throughout the week for those seeking a quieter experience.
Gift vouchers are on offer for those who wish to share the experience with family or friends, and the restaurant regularly updates its news section with seasonal events and chef collaborations. Readers interested in the philosophy behind slow-cooked comfort classics will appreciate this homestyle gravy guide that explores similar themes of patience, quality ingredients, and time-honoured technique.
Come hungry, leave inspired, and let the flavours of an Italian autumn linger long after your visit.