Discover the flavours of one of Italy’s most famed regions right here in Bahrain at Sapori Di Toscana Le Domain, as Apple Sharma indulges in an exquisite dining experience.

The Domain Hotel and Spa’s newest dining outlet, Sapori Di Toscana, is the talk of the town, offering a tantalising journey into the heart of Tuscany. Since its opening in February, it has been making waves as Bahrain’s first Tuscan eatery and for its affiliation with the renowned Vetrina Toscana project that is dedicated to promoting Tuscan cuisine. Recognised as the initiative’s first Tuscan restaurant abroad by government tourism agency, Toscana Promozione Turistica, this new dining spot proudly wears its heritage on its sleeve.

Naturally, we’re only too excited to see what the buzz is all about as we head to Level 34 where the restaurant is located. As soon as we enter, we’re amazed by the stunning views of the city skyline and are immediately transported to the sun-kissed hills of Tuscany, thanks to the exquisite ambience and décor. The walls painted with Tuscan landscapes, the plush cushioned chairs and the soft glow of black and turquoise ceiling lamps, create an atmosphere of warmth and elegance. Large potted olive trees and coffee-table books on Tuscany add to the cosiness.

We are greeted by the lovely Marketing Manager, Amna Yousif, the Food and Beverage Manager, Srinivas Akula and the Chef de Partie, Mandeep Rawat, who is to prepare our feast. Having trained for two years under the expert guidance of renowned Italian Chef Simona Girelli, Chef Mandeep’s expertise is evident in the authentic dishes he produces.

We take our seats by the window, with Italian melodies serenading us. A large decorative lemon and a fragrant fresh oregano plant on each table provide the perfect setting for a Tuscan culinary journey. The menu is divided into two sections – Taste of Tuscany and Taste of Italian Classics – catering to diverse palates while staying true to the restaurant’s roots. We start in traditional Tuscan style with a selection of warm bread, olive oil and balsamic vinegar and antipasti of cold and hot appetisers. The Insalata di Finocchi e Arance is a refreshing salad of fennel, oranges, strawberries, mint and toasted almonds, tossed with olive oil – a staple in Tuscan cuisine. One of my favourites, the crunchy fennel’s aniseed-like flavour marries beautifully with the sweet and sour of the fruit and the saltiness of the nuts. Equally fresh is the Insalata Colorata, a colourful layered salad featuring green and red leaves, carrot shavings, apples, pears, pecorino cheese, walnuts, olives and peppers. Served alongside avocado wedges and a crostini dressed with pesto, this salad is a symphony of tastes and textures.

Next up is Carpaccio di Manzo, thinly sliced steak served with rocca leaves and parmesan. The subtle gamey flavour of the meat balances perfectly with the slight sharpness of the rocket leaves. For something more indulgent, we try the beautifully presented Sformato di Zucchine, a zucchini or courgette flan with parmesan cheese sauce, and the Vitello Tonnato, a slow-cooked veal slice served with a tuna and caper sauce.

Moving on to Primi Piatti (first course), Sapori Di Toscana dazzles with its homemade pastas, prepared à la minute to offer the best taste and texture. From the rich and savoury Tortelli al Ragù di Carne to the delicate and creamy Ravioli, Ricotta e Spinaci, each dish brings out the soulful flavours of Tuscany. A must-try is the Gnocchi, pillowy soft potato dumplings served with a decadent mushroom sauce and drizzled with truffle oil.

Meanwhile, the Spaghetti Allo Scoglio, brimming with the fresh flavours of the sea, evokes the sun-drenched shores of the Tuscan coast with every bite. Another hit is the comforting Lasagna al Ragù, a classic favourite presented with layers of homemade pasta, rich beef ragù and creamy béchamel sauce.

Before delving into the mains, we taste Zuppa di Farro, a hearty soup comprising farro (a type of wheat grain), beans, aromatic herbs and a drizzle of olive oil, topped with delicious fried potato shavings that lift the flavours to another level.

For Secondo Piatti (mains), Sapori Di Toscana offers a selection of dishes that exemplify the elegance of the region’s cuisine. Vitella al Latte features milk-roasted veal served with roast potatoes, sautéed spinach and a unique milk sauce. Delicately cooked, the flavourful combination of milk, rosemary, sago and garlic shines through in this dish – a triumph of simplicity and sophistication.

No meal is complete without a sweet finale and the dessert menu offers a tempting array of delights. The classic Cannoli di Pasta Sfoglia Alla Crema, a decadent puff pastry shell filled with Chantilly cream, is served with fresh strawberries and one of the most delicious vanilla sauces I’ve tasted. From the classic Tiramisu, with its layers of espresso-soaked savoiardi biscuits and creamy mascarpone cheese topped with dark chocolate shards, to the Panna Cotta, a velvety smooth vanilla delight topped with a tart berry compote, each dessert is a celebration of indulgence and elegance.

Live music by a pianist adds a touch of romance to every evening, while special occasions are elevated with personalised setups, complete with rose petals, candles and cakes.

Whether you’re looking for a romantic dinner or a family celebration, this Italian gem of an eatery promises an experience that is as memorable as it is delicious. So come, take a seat, and let the flavours of Tuscany whisk you away on a culinary adventure unlike any other. ✤

GO: CALL 1600 0000 OR VISIT WWW.THEDOMAINHOTELS.COM FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO MAKE A RESERVATION.