Our Story
Inspired Roman cuisine meets Abu Dhabi welcoming atmosphere, all served up by an award-winning chef.
From Rome...
At Localino, our story began with a desire to bring inspired Roman pizzas and pasta to our city, where options were limited.
We knew that quick service didn't have to mean sacrificing quality, so we set out to create a menu that would satisfy both taste buds and busy schedules.
... To Abu Dhabi
As founders with backgrounds in the hotel and restaurant industry, we knew that we had the skills and experience necessary to make Localino a reality.
And with an award-winning chef who has worked in Italy and developed a deep love for its cuisine and products, delivering the authenticity and quality that our customers crave was an evidence.
Our mission
To connect our community with the best Italian food, and using farm to table ingredients as much as possible while ensuring great value for money. But beyond that, we're here to share our love for great meals and warm hospitality with everyone who walks through our doors.
Meet the Chef Partner
Co - Founder
Shammi De Costa
Hey there! With over two decades immersed in the culinary world, I like to think of myself as a seasoned expert My journey has taken me through the vibrant kitchens of Italy, the exotic flavors of South-East Asia, the rich traditions of the Middle-East, and the pristine beauty of the Maldives. It's been quite a ride, cooking up a storm in top-notch spots like Mandarin Oriental, Shangri-La, Atlantis, and the cozy Cafe de Paris.
When it comes to cooking, I'm all about keeping it real. My culinary philosophy revolves around authenticity and the pursuit of excellence in every dish. I firmly believe that the quality of ingredients serves as the basis of remarkable culinary experiences. That's why I'm super picky about where I source my ingredients from – only the best will do!
I've had the pleasure of sharing my skills with esteemed establishments, proudly lending my expertise to create unforgettable meals. And hey, speaking of sharing, I'm honored to be a member of the Emirates Culinary Guild. It's a place where I continue to learn, grow, and hang out with fellow food lovers, sharing my passion for cooking with the world and picking up new tricks along the way.
Chef Awards
Parma Pizza World Championship (Italy - 4th place)
Masters of Pizza (UAE - 1st Place)
Culinary World Cup (Silver Medal)
Culinary Challenge FHA (Bronze Medal)
Culinary Olympic (Bronze Medal)