While filming Season 3 of #LifeofDmitriRuwan I happened to come across an interesting restaurant located at the JA Ocean View Hotel in the bustling centre of JBR (Jumeirah Beach Residences) and while this page typically focuses on small café’s and hideaways, there’s something particularly unique about Motorino, that makes it just ideal for our Secret Diners page.
Tucked away amidst the typical hubbub of JBR lies Motorino, a pizzeria that claims to have ‘the best pizza in town’ thanks to its head chef Mathieu Palombino, who was specifically drafted in to ensure we experience the finest taste that this Brooklyn originated brand has to offer. As we stepped into the restaurant located on the first floor of the hotel and walked through its calm interiors we were greeted by several friendly members of the staff, one of whom we’d come to know was named Reynard, and guided us to the breezy outdoor terrace to our table; a plush beige circular sofa surrounded by natural foliage and a view of the street below. Here, over a glass of prosecco we were able to scan the menu, as someone whose recently reverted to a no-carb diet, I admit coming to a pizzeria seems overly ambitious however it has always been my strong opinion that the true success of any venture is its ability to be versatile, and in the case of an eatery; offer its consumer a variety of options.
Thankfully, I wasn’t disappointed, because in addition to several healthy pizza options each item mentions specific ingredients for those who have gluten/nut allergies and has an extensive list of appetizers (and spirits) that can surely double as a meal. So, as I tucked into my carb-free Octopus and Potatoes, followed by picking at my colleagues Fritto Misto, I couldn’t help but feel thoroughly satisfied, the flavours were just right, with a hint of zest that one often finds missing in contemporary foods. However, Moerz, my colleague was insistent that we couldn’t leave before trying the famed pizza, which is why upon having a sliver of the Cremini Mushroom, I could tell Motorino was a place one frequents. The pizza was flavourful, light and crisp; a welcome departure from the fast-food versions that are heavy on the artificial flavouring agents and ingredients. Here, at Motorino you get the true Italian-American fusion, without compromising on quality.
But, as I mentioned earlier while some may go to Motorino for the pizza, I can firmly say what I valued most was the calm nature of its outdoor terrace, the friendly and cheerful staff, the fine wine and of course, my Octopus & Potatoes dish with Amalfi lemon – delicious!
View the complete menu here.
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