Big Oli Brings Authentic Venetian Street Food Culture To Dubai
Dubai's dining scene has just become richer with the opening of Big Oli at Neighbourhood Food Hall on Monday, 10th June. This new venue aims to transport its guests straight to Venice, offering an authentic Italian dining experience centred around the traditional Venetian pasta, bigoli. The story behind Big Oli is as charming as its menu, inspired by a young boy named Oli who fell into his mother's pot of pasta and was inspired to share the magic of his family's pasta with the world.
At the heart of Big Oli's menu is the commitment to authenticity and quality. The restaurant promises classic Italian dishes, focusing on bigoli made fresh in-house daily using just three ingredients: flour, semolina, and egg yolk. This dedication to traditional cooking methods and ingredients sourced directly from Venice and other parts of Italy ensures that each dish serves as a homage to Italy's rich culinary heritage.

Head Chef Fabio Longhi, originally from Torino, Italy, brings over a decade of experience in Italian cuisine to Big Oli. Having worked as a private chef in Dubai for 11 years, Chef Fabio's expertise and passion for Italian cooking are evident in every dish served. "We are thrilled to bring the flavours of Italy to Dubai," he remarked, emphasizing the restaurant's focus on quality and authenticity. Among his favourite dishes are the squid ink bigoli and duck ragu bigoli, which are sure to delight diners looking for a truly Venetian experience.
The menu at Big Oli offers a diverse range of pizza and pasta dishes, including shrimp peri peri pasta, anchovy salsa pasta with sweet caramelized onion, and the cacio e pepe, a creamy dish that perfectly balances flavours. Pizza lovers can indulge in a variety of options, such as the truffle pizza and the pepperoni pizza. For children, the menu does not disappoint, featuring topping options like bolognese and pesto for the bigoli, ensuring a delightful experience for all ages.
Dining at Big Oli is more than just a meal; it's an experience. Located in the warm and welcoming atmosphere of Neighbourhood Food Hall, the restaurant is perfect for any occasion, from a casual lunch to group dining with friends and family. With its dedication to traditional cooking methods and high-quality ingredients, Big Oli promises to be a beloved addition to Dubai's culinary landscape, inviting locals and tourists alike to savour the essence of Venetian cuisine.
In a city known for its diverse and vibrant food scene, Big Oli stands out by offering a unique and authentic taste of Italy. Its story, inspired by a love for traditional Italian pasta, and its commitment to authenticity, make it a must-visit for anyone seeking an exceptional dining experience in Dubai.