Growing up in a Chinese household, I had family-style dining almost every-day of my life. I never realized what it has taught me until a couple weeks ago, my sister and mother came to visit me in U.A.E.. We went to Rosso’s Italian Restaurant at Amwaj Rotana Hotel where we stayed in Dubai.
Here are reasons why we should opt for family-style dining more often:
- Improves Social Skills like Sharing – I was lucky enough to learn this at an early age growing up with an older sister. By practicing family-style dining even families with an only-child can learn this skill just at their dinner table or local restaurant.
- Creates Conversation and Builds Relationships – This is particularly true when guests are deciding what to order. Conversation is a must and you get to learn about each other preferences. I found out my mom loves truffles!
- Encourages interaction – In this society where interaction during meals is becoming less and less due to our phones (i’m guilty!), this is a key benefit in family-style dining. It forces all the guests to provide all their focus to the meal. Chinese people love to serve each other so it is the most polite to be present during the meal and express your gratitude and serve back when this happens.
- Can Eat All at the Same Time – I hate those awkward moments when my friend’s food has arrived and I am just sitting there awkward waiting for mine. With family style dining, we can begin all at the same time once the first dish arrives!
- Able to Taste more Things – I love to try anything once but at times I only really wanted was a bite.
- Portions according to their own preference – I feel so guilty when I cannot finish the food on my plate at coursed dinners. Family style sharing allows me to just get what is enough for myself and leave the rest for the other guests.
- Unites the Family – with family-style dining it reminds us of the family gatherings like Thanksgiving, Christmas, Eid al-Fitr, etc. It unites us together, reminds us of good memories and gives us new ones.
Read on further for my recommendations on the best family-sharing dishes at Rosso:
Rosso, Amwaj Rotana, Dubai, UAE
My family and I were invited to dine at Rosso. We were seated outside on the terrace where the palm trees lit up with lights and you could feel a nice warm breeze. They had heaters nearby and blankets for their guests. On the contrary, you could dine indoors in a dim romantic setting nearby a large sleek bar. There are hints of red tones everywhere from the chairs, to the table settings as “Rosso” means Red.
The service and hospitality was superb at Rosso. Their server, Lajith, was happy to greet us, and went above and beyond in explaining each dish to us and answering our questions.
Rosso had an extension menu and has so many options for family-style. Here are some of the best picks for sharing:
Appetizers
Insalata Rosso – fresh greens with fennel, beetroot, orange, walnuts and cherry tomatoes. This is perfect for guests who love a hint of sweetness to their salads!
La Burrata di Puglia Su Mix Di Pomodori Heirloom e Basilico – burrata cheese with heirloom tomato and basil
Mains
Riso Acquerello Al Funghi E Tartufo Nero – risotto with mixed mushrooms, black truffle and parmesan cheese. My mother loves this dish and its richness.
Agnolotti Con Gamberri, Asparagi E Mascarpone – agnolotti with prawns, asparagus and mascarpone cheese.
Vatellina Pizza- fresh tomato sauce with mozzarella, beef bresaola, rocket leaves and parmesan cheese. They bake their pizzas fresh in their wood-fired oven.
Aperitivo Bravissimo, Saturdays from 5 pm to 8 pm
Featuring Italian bites such as Breaded Zucchini Chips and Avocado, Tomato and Basil Canapes, a selection of cold cuts, cheese and olives for AED 85 per person
Dessert
Profitterole Con Pralinato Di Nicciola – hazelnut profiteroles glazed with chocolate Chantilly cream. I had 3rds in this one!
Hope you will enjoy my picks and let me know in the comments below what you think about family-style dining!
