Antonia opens its second branch in Abu Dhabi’s Al Zeina

The new outpost is now welcoming visitors.

Abu Dhabi foodies, get ready because Antonia has finally opened its second branch in the capital. Located in Al Zeina, this restaurant offers pizza unlike any you’ve ever tasted.

Welcoming crowds from 22 October, this new branch of Antonia is going to be buzzing with visitors all day long. And it’s no surprise because the eatery’s first branch at Mamsha Al Saadiyat has already won hearts. In fact, it snagged the FACT Dining Award Abu Dhabi for Casual Italian Dining last year. 

Simone Federici is a culinary prodigy who discovered his passion for cooking at the tender age of 13. Under the tutelage of his grandmother, Antonia, he honed his skills and was later recognised as one of Italy’s top young chefs. After gaining valuable experience in some of Italy’s finest restaurants and making his mark in the Caribbean and Miami, he decided to bring his culinary magic to Abu Dhabi.

But what makes Antonia’s pizza exceptional? It’s all about the dough. Antonia’s unique sourdough has a story of its own, starting in 1972 when Grandma Antonia created this magical starter. Passed down through the family, the sourdough has matured like fine wine, gaining complexity and taste with each passing year. Crafted with love and care, the dough is fermented for 72 hours, making it light, crispy, and oh-so-digestible. There’s also a secret ingredient – a 50-year-old sourdough that’s been handed down through generations which means every slice of Antonia’s pizza contains a piece of history.

And that’s not all. Antonia’s is all about the Pizza Al Taglio experience, which means “by the slice”. Expect rectangular trays loaded with a tantalising variety of toppings, all displayed over the counter, waiting for you to pick your favourites.

You get to choose from Margherita, Diavola, Quattro Formaggi, Ortolana, Gricia and many other options — but you always eat it with your hands. Apart from pizza, Antonia’s also serves a wide selection of appetisers, and pastas — including gluten-free options, salads and delicious desserts. Make sure you get the whole experience while you’re here.

Antonia’s new branch in Al Zeina offers a smaller menu than it’s Mamsha counterpart, but rumour has it that a third branch might be opening its doors before the end of the year too. 

Go on, grab a slice, 

GO: Follow @antonia.uae on Instagram for more information.