If you’ve been to Social by Heinz Beck at Waldorf Astoria Palm Jumeirah, then you’ll understand the value of the offer during Dubai Restaurant Week of a three-course meal here for Dh199. Beck, who’s at the helm of La Pergola — the only three Michelin-starred restaurant in Rome — has put his name and his signature dishes on Social’s menu in Dubai and it’s well worth a visit.
The set menu includes Beck’s signature fagotelli carbonara — a dish he’s rightly famous for, veal marinated in yogurt served with peach coulis and tiramisu. But the meal first started with a generous portion of tasty homemade breads and a plate of amuse-bouches that reflects Beck’s innovation: think beetroot and wasabi macaroons.
The first course of fagotelli carbonara nearly brought me to tears, from pure joy. These thin, delicate pasta parcels envelop a rich mix of egg yolk, Parmesan and pecorino cheese. The pasta bursts in your mouth with just the slightest bit of pressure, bringing forth a gush of creamy, decadent liquid. The fragrant tender veal, with a texturally-pleasing pistachio crust, is also excellent. It’s first marinated in yogurt overnight, roasted and then delivered to you with hints of cardamom and anise. Order it medium rare. The tiramisu is an outstanding interpretation of this classic dessert. It’s a cylinder of layered sponge cake and cream, coffee meringue, coffee ice cream and coffee cream poured over top. This a creamy, sweet ending and the coffee notes are subtle, with no hint of bitterness. We devoured it.
Social by Heinz Beck is one of 15 restaurants serving special menus for just Dh199 per person during Dubai Restaurant Week. There are two seatings nightly — 7.30pm and 9.30pm — through March 4. To book, visit www.roundmenu.com/dubai/restaurant-week
sjohnson@thenational.ae
