Authentic Italian flavours were what Michael Santos discovered on a trip to BiCE Ristorante.

Nestled within the Pullman Doha West Bay, BiCE Restaurant has long been renowned for its authentic Italian cuisine and warm, inviting .ambience which has been evident since the brand was established in 1926 in Milan, Italy.

Like its outlets across the world, in New York, Dubai and Florida, the Qatar eatery exudes an elegant, yet cosy charm with its tasteful decor, soft lighting and comfortable seating. During this visit, we enjoyed indulging in their signature dishes, truly a gastronomic experience that takes diners on a delightful culinary journey through Italy’s diverse flavours.

The menu created by Chef de Cuisine Matteo boasts an array of classic and signature Italian dishes, showcasing the country’s diverse regional, culinary traditions. Each recipe is meticulously prepared with the freshest ingredients and an expert touch, from delectable antipasti to mouth-watering pasta, risotto and indulgent desserts. The culinary adventure began with the Insalata di Polpo e Patate, a vibrant and refreshing octopus and potato salad. The octopus is carefully cooked to perfection and combined with tender boiled potatoes, creating a delightful contrast in textures. The salad is elevated with a bright, zesty dressing that balances the flavours beautifully. Each bite offered a harmonious blend of the octopus’ briny essence, the potatoes’ earthiness, and the refreshing tang of the sauce. The delicate flavours and expert balance set the tone for what was to come.

Pappardelle al Telefono – homemade egg pappardelle tossed with mozzarella, tomato, fresh basil and a touch of cream – is an Italian masterpiece and a BiCE signature dish that captivated our senses. From the first bite, we were transported to where taste and texture danced harmoniously, leaving an indelible mark on our gastronomic journey. The pasta was perfectly cooked, striking a delicate balance between tender and al dente. Each strand embraced the rich, velvety, clinging tomato sauce, showcasing the expertise of the culinary artisans behind this symphony of flavours. The delightful mozzarella dance truly elevated this dish to celestial heights. The cheese, so lovingly named ‘al Telefono’ (meaning ‘on the telephone’ in Italian), melted seamlessly into the tomato sauce, creating a luscious, stringy embrace with each forkful. The interplay of the creamy, slightly salty mozzarella and the vibrant, tangy tomato sauce was nothing short of divine, a true testament to the culinary magic at play.

Another incredible pasta dish and BiCE signature is the Cappellacci alla Massaia – homemade spinach and beef ravioli with porcini mushrooms, Parmigiano and cream sauce. The dish consists of delicate pockets of pasta generously filled with a scrumptious combination of ricotta cheese, spinach and nutmeg. The filling was expertly balanced, with the creamy ricotta complementing the earthy notes of fresh spinach and the subtle warmth of nutmeg. The dish was finished with a cream sauce that beautifully tied everything together.

As our culinary journey continued, the Ossobuco alla Milanese con Risotto allo Zafferano, a classic ossobuco Milanese style with creamy saffron rice, took centre stage with its irresistible flavours and presentation. The succulent veal shanks braised to perfection were accompanied by a luscious and aromatic sauce that enveloped the meat, infusing it with richness and depth. The meat and bone marrow effortlessly fell off the bone, offering a tender, melt-in-the-mouth experience. Serving as the perfect companion, the risotto allo Zafferano added a touch of elegance to the dish. The creamy rice, delicately infused with saffron, boasted a vibrant golden hue and a subtle floral aroma. Cooked al dente, each grain retained its texture while effortlessly absorbing the flavours of the broth. Combining the tender ossobuco, the luxurious bone marrow, and the tantalising risotto creates a symphony of flavours that will leave you craving more; I’ll bet you that. This dish is a true testament to the culinary wonders that can be achieved when tradition meets innovation. It is a dish that demands to be savoured, celebrated and shared, for it embodies the very essence of Italian gastronomy.

Dessert proved to be the perfect grand finale for our meal. The Tiramisu, a classic Italian indulgence, velvety and irresistibly decadent, is a timeless classic that has captured the hearts and taste buds of dessert enthusiasts in Doha. The cocoa powder’s bitter-sweetness and the coffee’s robust essence beautifully complemented the sweet and creamy mascarpone with the expertly chosen ladyfingers. The mingling of these elements created a perfect balance, ensuring that no single flavour overpowered the others. Every bite was a delightful combination of subtle sweetness and a gentle coffee kick, leaving a lingering, satisfying taste long after the last spoonful. The attention to detail in achieving the perfect balance was evident in every bite, ensuring an authentic experience that transports you to the streets of Italy.

The attentive staff added to the immersive ambience, providing impeccable service throughout the evening. Whether you’re seeking a romantic dinner or a gathering with friends, BiCE offers an ideal setting for an unforgettable, authentic Italian dining experience. And complementing the culinary excellence is an extensive cellar featuring a well-curated selection of Italian grapes. The sommelier was knowledgeable and provided excellent recommendations, pairing each course flawlessly – a treat, whether you’re a connoisseur or an enthusiastic novice. ✤

GO: CALL 4009 4000 FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO MAKE A RESERVATION.