If you're in Dubai and craving a taste of home or a warm hug from grandma, Nonnaverse is the place to go. This dining experience seamlessly blends tradition with innovation, making every meal feel like a family gathering. The heart and soul of Nonnaverse is nonna (Italian for grandmother) Silvana, who, despite not speaking English, welcomes guests with open arms and a vibrant spirit. She engages in lively conversations and even breaks into dance during the seven-course meal.
Born in Palermo in 1955, Silvana Ligotti grew up in a family deeply rooted in culinary traditions. Inspired by her father's love for cooking and her mother's skills in knitting and crochet, Silvana's passion for Sicilian cuisine flourished. At 32, she married and, after losing her husband, focused her energy on creating a joyful life for her children. Her culinary talents became a cornerstone of her family's happiness, and her legacy is carried on by her son Andrea, who is now a chef.
The journey of Nonna Silvana to Dubai is as heartwarming as her dishes. Her son Marco, a fitness instructor in Dubai for over a decade, often hosted friends and clients who were enchanted by Silvana's home-cooked meals during her visits. A chance conversation with a client about a rotating nonna restaurant concept sparked the idea for Nonnaverse. 'My mother would visit me in Dubai and cook the most incredible meals. My friends and clients began asking, ‘Where can we get authentic Italian food like this?’ I’d always joke, ‘Come to my apartment—my mom makes the best!’ But when the opportunity arose to bring her talents to a restaurant, I knew we had something special. And here we are, creating magic together,' Marco recalls with a laugh. Silvana, initially hesitant, embraced the idea with her characteristic warmth and enthusiasm.
Nonnaverse is more than just a restaurant; it's a celebration of heritage and human connection. Silvana not only cooks but also teaches the restaurant's team her recipes, ensuring every dish reflects the heart of Sicilian cuisine. Her cooking is a vibrant tapestry of Sicilian history, blending influences from Greek, Arab, Spanish, and French cuisines. Dishes like her famous cannoli and pumpkin risotto are a sensory journey through Sicily’s past, crafted with love and authenticity.
The menu, curated by Silvana, showcases traditional dishes adapted for fine dining while maintaining their authentic essence. Beyond its culinary mission, Nonnaverse is committed to social impact. All proceeds from the restaurant are donated to UAE-based charities, combining the joy of shared meals with the power to give back to the community. What truly sets Nonnaverse apart is the personal touch that Silvana brings. She visits tables, engages with guests, and ensures everyone feels like part of her extended family.
Nonnaverse isn’t just a culinary tribute; it’s a movement to empower grandmothers and spotlight their incredible skills. Many nonnas have spent decades perfecting their craft in family kitchens, often unnoticed by the world. Nonnaverse gives them a platform to share their talent while earning an income. 'This project proves that grandmothers can still shine,' says Bhupender Nath, Founder and MD of Passion F&B Group which owns Nonnaverse. 'Their age is their strength, and their experience is their gift to all of us.'
While Nonnaverse celebrates tradition, it doesn’t shy away from creativity. Each menu offers a mix of authentic dishes and imaginative fusions. Perhaps what makes Nonnaverse truly exceptional is the human touch. Guests don’t just enjoy a meal; they feel like part of a family. Nonna Silvana often checks in with diners, asking about their experience and sharing her warmth.
The rotating nonna concept ensures that Nonnaverse remains dynamic and ever-evolving. In the near future, you could see nonnas from Saudi or Germany donning the chef's cap. As each nonna shares her unique culinary heritage, diners can look forward to exploring new traditions and flavors every few months. For now, Nonna Silvana continues to charm guests with her Sicilian hospitality. And while her dishes are reason enough to visit, it’s her warmth and genuine care that make Nonnaverse an unforgettable experience.
Source link: https://www.khaleejtimes.com
