Simply Abu Dhabi Magazine XVII

An Exclusive Interview with Mr. Guiseppe Cipriani Simply Abu Dhabi: Cipriani traces its roots to the legendary Harry’s Bar in Venice. What can you tell us about the origins of the restaurant, and how it has evolved to the luxury brand it is today? Mr. Cipriani: On May 1931, my grandfather Giuseppe opened what many years later would become a national landmark - Harry’s Bar, in Venice. The outlet was defined by 50 square metres of attentive service, good Venetian cuisine, lively atmosphere and perfectly proportioned furniture and tableware. The establishment became so popular that demand for it spread to the other side of the Atlantic, and years later to many other locations in Europe, United States, Asia andMiddle East. The simple but strong values and relaxed atmosphere that distinguishes Harry’s Bar is still valid today after over 80 years. Cipriani is known for its classic Italian dishes, but what a lot of people don’t realise is that this particular restaurant serves a variety of sushi and sashimi dishes as well. How do these two distinct cuisines work alongside each other? I believe they work really well. I myself happen to sometimes crave some simple and fresh sushi or sashimi for a change, or to complement other choices from the more traditionally Italian part of the menu. Our goal is to offer the best quality and sections of the fish and not to overwhelm it with too many other tastes. Don’t forget that if we go back to where we started, we have always found some fantastic fish in Venice which has allowed us to have it served as crudo. Chilean Sea Bass 'alla Carlina' 6 6 S I M P LY A B U DH A B I