Raffles Doha, opening this Autumn, will be the home of the first restaurant outside of Italy for one of the most talented and renowned chefs, Enrico Crippa.
The world-renowned, Michelin Three-Star chef, recently ranked 19th in The World’s 50 Best Restaurants 2022 with his restaurant, Piazza Duomo, will bring his contemporary and refined style of Italian cuisine to the iconic Raffles Doha with the launch of ALBA by Enrico Crippa.
The name of the new restaurant – ALBA – was chosen as a tribute to the Italian region of Langhe and its capital, Alba, which Chef Crippa has embraced as his adopted land. The exclusive and elegant ALBA restaurant will offer guests an immersive experience with an artistic, dynamic and surprising menu. Chef Crippa brings a culinary approach that respects local traditions, represents the rich flavours of Italy in a new context, and utilises local and traditional ingredients, with a focus on the spices and scents of the Orient.
“I am delighted to be opening my first international restaurant at Raffles Doha, to cultivate Italian cuisine and bring my vision of original, elegant and colourful cuisine to Qatar,” said Chef Enrico Crippa “The menu will be strongly respectful of local traditions while representing all the flavours of Italy in a modern ‘journey of the senses.” “We are extremely proud to have the first international opening of Enrico Crippa with ALBA at Raffles Doha,” added Christian Hirt, Managing Director of Raffles and Fairmont Doha. “His craftsmanship and passion mirror Raffles's philosophy and he will look to pair legendary recipes with surprising twists for an unforgettable experience. Patrons will enjoy sophisticated dining, serving a modern take on Italian cuisine, paired with exceptional regional wines and dishes. We look forward to welcoming guests with a curated menu and truffle experience bringing the true spirit of Italy to Qatar.”
Antonino Alessio has been named Executive Chef at ALBA, Raffles Doha. D’Alessio has been part of the team behind Piazza Duomo for many years. It will be assisted in the dining room by Vincenzo Donatiello, Director and Sommelier at Piazza Duomo for nine years. Together alongside their team, they will continue the philosophy of Crippa at the new opening, with Vincenzo appointed as Restaurant General Manager.
Chefs Crippa and Alessio have together developed the menus offered at Raffles Doha, evaluating and experimenting with a formula that summarises their idea of traditional dishes, revisited in a contemporary way. Flavours and preparations have drawn inspiration from the rich and varied Italian regional cuisine, which retraces the great classics of the country, from North to South, as a modern journey of the senses.ALBA by Enrico Crippa is the first announcement of the culinary experiences which will be on offer at Raffles Doha.