Pepe Cucina review: Bring an appetite – and someone willing to share

Friday night at Pepe Cucina in JBR, Dubai, welcomed families, couples, and friends with a lively ambiance. The restaurant's friendly, welcoming atmosphere made it feel like a familiar place. With a large space, there was ample room for gatherings and the popular Saturday brunch. Booths lined one side, while banquette tables divided the middle for socializing.

The menu was a one-page list of options. Dishes like truffle arancini and a Gorgonzola, pecan, fig salad were shared among diners. The arancini balls were deep-fried and crunchy, with a soft interior and truffle sauce for dipping. The salad brought together flavors that encouraged sharing on each forkful.

The pizza margherita, a thin and crispy crust with caramelized cheese, was shared among diners. The pasta selection included a Genovese-style fusilli in a rich pecorino sauce. The hearty ragu paired well with the pasta, and the diner planned to return for it as a winter dish.

To balance the carb-heavy meal, a salt-baked sea bass fillet with roasted potatoes was ordered. The delicate flavor and tender texture made it an ideal complement to the meal. The dessert list featured traditional Italian sweets, and the diner chose a chocolate mousse for its creamy, chocolatey texture.

The sea bass fillet stood out for its versatility, complementing lighter sides and heavier dishes. For those looking to indulge, the fritto misto, truffle pizza, lobster linguine, and grilled lamb chops were the high-end options. Pepe Cucina offers a variety of dishes for different budgets and preferences. It is open Monday to Thursday from 4pm to 12am, and Friday to Sunday from 1pm to 12am. Reservations can be made by calling 04 879 8866.