The Vegetarian Perspective

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Casa Mia: Homestyle Dining

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Casa Mia: Homestyle Dining

It’s a pleasant winter afternoon and I’m sitting at the Meridien Village, where I had previously enjoyed a wonderful lunch at Sukhothai. This time, I have my sights set on its neighboring restaurant, Casa Mia.

Casa Mia Le Meridien Dubai Interior
The interior of the restaurant is fairly understated, aside from some artwork and Italian opera masks on the walls. While it is a nice space, the outdoor area is the main focus. Although it’s later in the afternoon, there’s a decent crowd sitting outside, and I decide to do the same.

Aside from the regular menu options, Casa Mia also has a ‘healthy choices’ section, which primarily consists of salads. I order a plate of seasonal grilled vegetables from this section, as well as a soup and burrata dish from the main menu.

Minestrone - Casa Mia Le Meridien Dubai
Burrata - Casa Mia Le Meridien Dubai

Minestrone soup is an old Italian classic, and the one at Casa Mia is nice and hearty. The flavor is simple but very comforting, and the addition of basil pesto gives it a little zest. The Burrata with Heirloom Tomato Salad is presented quite nicely, with a ring of tomatoes around the burrata in the center. The creamy burrata and slightly crunchy tomatoes create a nice contrast, and the overall flavor is just right. I would have preferred it if the tomatoes were chopped a bit finer, though, so it’d be easier to get some tomato and burrata in the same spoonful.

The grilled vegetables look quite colorful, consisting of carrots, red bell peppers and onions, among others. Grilled radicchio adds a bitter note to balance that out the natural sweetness of the vegetables, and a grilled polenta cake adds a bit more substance to the dish. The whole thing is very simple overall, but I suppose that was the idea.

Grilled Vegetables - Casa Mia Le Meridien Dubai

For the main course, I keep it simple with Linguine Pesto Genovese and Ravioli. Pieces of potato and green beans in the linguine help absorb the bold flavor of the pesto and add some more wholesomeness to the dish. However, the pasta itself is just a bit more al dente than I’d like, and tastes slightly doughy. The sun-shaped ravioli is topped off with a vibrant looking tomato sauce (which can be substituted for a cream or butter based sauce on request), and is an instant winner. I love the combination of cheese with the tomato sauce, working harmoniously to create a taste that makes me smile.

Linguine Pesto Genovese - Casa Mia Le Meridien Dubai
Ravioli - Casa Mia Le Meridien Dubai

There are quite a few options for dessert, but I decide to go with the tiramisu. It’s a classic, of course, and also a signature dessert at Casa Mia. Unlike some other versions that come decorated with strawberry slices or mint leaves, the look of this one is plain and simple, aside from a little playfulness in the form of a spoon silhouette formed with cocoa powder. The tiramisu is perfectly moist, and the flavor is absolutely spot on. Along with a cup of black coffee (and some lovely Italian biscuits), it’s a great end to the meal.
The fare at Casa Mia is uncomplicated, keeping its focus entirely on fresh and authentic flavors. Its location in the Meridien Village adds to its rustic charms, and makes it a good destination for a relaxing afternoon getaway.

Tiramisu - Casa Mia Le Meridien Dubai

10/10stars

GRASSY SUMMARY
Veggie Friendly: ✔  Vegan Friendly: X
Pros: Relaxed environment, good service, good flavors
Cons: The ‘healthy options’ section could use some more non-salad dishes, linguine was a bit undercooked
Price: $$ (50 - 200 AED)

Average price for 1 guest without alcohol

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