A Bold New Era of Italian Dining: Chef Vittorio Lepore Redefines Verso at Grand Hyatt Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi’s vibrant culinary scene is stepping into a delicious new chapter, and at the heart of this transformation is Verso, the warm and stylish Italian trattoria at Grand Hyatt Abu Dhabi. Known for its relaxed Mediterranean charm and soulful flavours, Verso is now embracing an elevated identity with the arrival of Chef Vittorio Lepore, a culinary talent shaped by some of the world’s most celebrated Michelin-starred restaurants.

A Chef With Global Footprints and Italian Soul

Born in the sun-soaked city of Bari in South Italy, Chef Vittorio’s culinary journey reads like the itinerary of a passionate explorer. From Florence’s art-filled streets to the alpine kitchens of Südtirol, from Oxfordshire’s refined culinary culture to Noma in Copenhagen—one of the world’s most influential 3-Michelin-Star restaurants—his experiences have crafted a worldview that blends authenticity with fearless innovation.

His adventures continued all the way to Beijing, where he appeared on BRTV Spring Festival Gala 2025 and CGTN Super Night 2025, sharing not just recipes but stories, emotions, and the universal joy of food.

“At the table is where life’s most meaningful moments unfold,” Chef Vittorio reflects. “My goal is to make those moments unforgettable.”

Verso Reimagined: Italian Heart, Global Imagination

While Verso remains rooted in its beloved trattoria spirit, Chef Vittorio brings a fresh vision—one that promises to make the restaurant distinctly, unmistakably Verso.

His new à la carte and express lunch menus follow two strong guiding principles:

**✔ Uncompromising quality

✔ A modern, international twist**

This means expect the unexpected:

• A Caprese transformed into a silky, elegant soup

• A daring surf-and-turf, where sauces typically meant for meat meet the ocean’s finest flavours

• Italian classics elevated through clean technique and globally inspired creativity

Yet, no matter how inventive the dish, one rule remains sacred: ingredients are the hero.
“Technique should enhance, not overshadow,” he says. “Great food starts where great ingredients speak for themselves.”

A Journey of Curiosity That Continues at Verso

Chef Vittorio discovered his love for cross-cultural flavours in a Peruvian kitchen—an experience that opened his eyes to how ingredients tell stories. Today, this curiosity infuses every dish he crafts at Verso.

Outside the kitchen, he finds inspiration in film and music festivals, drawn to the energy, emotion, and artistic expression they embody—qualities he translates beautifully onto the plate.

A New Culinary Landmark at West Corniche

Located in the iconic Grand Hyatt Abu Dhabi Hotel & Residences Emirates Pearl, Verso is perfectly positioned for travellers exploring the capital. The hotel itself is a destination—dramatic architecture, sweeping views of the Arabian Gulf, and easy access to cultural highlights like the Louvre Abu Dhabi.

With Chef Vittorio now at the helm, Verso promises a refreshing blend of tradition and innovation, making it one of Abu Dhabi’s must-visit dining experiences for travellers, food lovers, and anyone seeking a taste of Italy reimagined.