Villa Toscana: Regional Italian Mastery on the Corniche
A House of Authentic Regional Italian Cooking
Villa Toscana distinguishes itself through an unwavering commitment to the regional traditions of Italy, eschewing the homogenised international interpretations that characterise lesser establishments. Situated within The St. Regis Abu Dhabi on the West Corniche, the restaurant envelops diners in an atmosphere of Tuscan villa warmth, a setting that grounds the culinary experience in genuine Italian domesticity rather than theatrical affectation. At the heart of this refined establishment stands chef Vittorio Nania, whose Calabrian heritage and culinary philosophy have become central to Villa Toscana’s evolving narrative. Nania’s excellence has been recognised by the Michelin Guide Abu Dhabi, which awarded him the 2026 Young Chef Award, whilst Villa Toscana itself maintains its position among the Guide’s Selected establishments. This recognition has illuminated a restaurant that already commanded respect as one of the Corniche’s most established and accomplished Italian addresses.
A Menu That Balances Comfort with Precision
The current menu navigates with confidence and sophistication between the comforting embrace of recognisable Italian flavour and the exacting demands of classical technique. Burrata arrives adorned with Piennolo tomatoes and fresh basil, whilst the traditionally robust ribollita showcases cannellini beans and black cabbage prepared with meticulous attention to time honoured methods. Handmade pici pasta is paired with an authentic Chiantigiano ragù, and risotto is prepared with the prized aged Acquerello rice, a ingredient synonymous with precision and refinement. The kitchen also presents veal Milanese in the classical tradition, alongside premium Wagyu, delicate seabass preparations, and a magnificent Fiorentina style T bone offered for sharing. Pizza maintains a measured presence within the repertoire, contributing to the offering without commanding undue prominence. The Michelin inspectors specifically commended Villa Toscana’s mastery of classic Tuscan dishes, spaghetti alle vongole, veal Milanese and the timeless elegance of tiramisu, a recognition that crystallises the restaurant’s fundamental philosophy: technique exists in service of authentic Italian flavour rather than culinary theatre.
Hospitality and Polish in Perfect Measure
Villa Toscana welcomes guests for both lunch and dinner throughout the week, with a dedicated weekday business lunch service and an evening aperitivo programme that extend reasons to visit beyond special occasions alone. The dining room achieves a notably refined atmosphere that never sacrifices the warmth of Italian domestic hospitality. Recent patrons continue to celebrate not only the precision of the pasta and the attentiveness of service, but equally the restaurant’s ability to maintain its welcoming spirit. Villa Toscana has accomplished something increasingly rare: it has evolved and matured without abandoning the regional authenticity that established its distinction. This constancy of character, coupled with genuine culinary excellence, positions the restaurant as an enduring destination for those seeking Italy’s authentic regional traditions expressed through contemporary mastery.