Muscat, Oman – This October, Mandarin Oriental, Muscat presents a unique culinary collaboration, bringing together the distinctive flavours of Northern and Southern Italy. From 2 to 4 October, Essenza welcomes Chef Luigi Stinga of Talea, 1 Michelin Star, at Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental, Abu Dhabi, for an exclusive Four Hands Dinner alongside Essenza’s Head Chef Davide Borin.
Chef Luigi Stinga, brings with him a wealth of experience shaped in some of Europe’s most celebrated kitchens and global culinary collaborations. Today, as Chef de Cuisine at Talea, Luigi continues to refine the art of Cucina di Famiglia – a heartfelt celebration of traditional Italian recipes, elegantly reinterpreted. His culinary achievements have been widely recognised, including the Young Chef Award 2023 by the MICHELIN Guide, 1 Michelin Star in three consecutive years, and Talea’s ranking at No. 48 in the World’s 50 Best Restaurants MENA 2024.
Joining him is Chef Davide Borin, Head Chef of Essenza at Mandarin Oriental, Muscat. Originally from Treviso in Italy’s Veneto region, Davide has built his career across Dubai, Hong Kong, and Italy, curating a cuisine that balances authenticity with modern finesse. At Essenza, he is celebrated for soulful Italian dishes that highlight fresh local produce, including his signature Tonno Scottato prepared with Omani tuna.
The partnership builds on the success of the collaboration held in July with Head Chef José Barroso of Michelin-starred Tasca by José Avillez at Mandarin Oriental Jumeira, Dubai.
Together, Borin and Stinga have curated a menu that pays tribute to Italy’s diverse culinary landscape, from the seafood-rich flavours of Southern Italy to the hearty, Alpine-inspired traditions of the north. Guests can look forward to an evening of sharing-style dishes that embody both chefs’ heritage and creative spirit.
Among the menu highlights is Pizza Nord contro Sud , a playful creation split in two to reflect the chefs’ origins: one side layered with porcini, beef ham and parmigiano, the other with burrata, anchovies and lemon. Chef Luigi also presents his signature Ravioli, delicately filled with smoked eggplant, beef tartare and celery, while his refined interpretation of Vitello alla Milanese elevates the classic dish with tender veal, smoked soft potato and Swiss chard.
“This Four Hands Dinner is about uniting Italy’s diverse culinary traditions – from the north to the south – in one menu,” says Chef Davide Borin of Mandarin Oriental, Muscat. “Working with Chef Luigi allows us to showcase the richness of Italian cuisine while embodying Mandarin Oriental’s philosophy of authentic flavours, genuine hospitality, and refined experiences.”
Available for three nights only, the set menu is priced at OMR 38 per person, served from 6:30pm to 11:30pm. Advance reservations are required.
For more information or to make a booking, please contact +968 2103 8888, email momct-reservations@mohg.com or visit mandarinoriental.com/muscat. Bookings can also be made on Sevenrooms through the link here: http://www.sevenrooms.com/events/essenzamomct