Historic Venetian Caffe Florian opens in the Gate Village in DIFC

Caffé Florian, one of the oldest coffee houses in Italy, opens its new flagship outlet in Dubai with a spectacular party on 6 May. After the recent opening of new locations in Florence and Abu Dhabi, the Café, first established in Venice’s St. Mark’s Square, is exporting its prestigious brand into the pulsing heart of the United Arab Emirates. This Venetian gem will add its timeless charm to the modern setting of the renowned Dubai International Financial Centre, the world’s fastest-growing global financial centre

Set within a space of 480 square meters, the new location is a contemporary interpretation of the famous 18th century Coffeehouse, featuring pastel colours inspired by the original 18th and 19th century frescoes, stuccoes, mosaics and Italian velvets, but in a decidedly modern key, designed by Italian architect Gloria De Ruggiero.

The design of Caffé Florian’s Dubai outlet pays tribute to the worldwide excellence of Venetian style and elegance with a huge, superbly handcrafted chandelier exclusively designed by artist Silvano Rubino and created in the Anfora Glass Furnace in Murano. The magnificent 3.5 x 2 m chandelier, created in exquisite amethyst and mirror-like silver blown glass, dominates the sumptuously decorated rooms and recreates the unmistakable Venetian ambience.

Abdulla Hamad Bin Sougat, Chief Executive Officer of DIFC Lifestyle said: “We are delighted to welcome the historic Caffé Florian to the Gate Village in DIFC. The historic Coffeehouse has been a meeting place for the social and cultural elite of Venice for almost three centuries and we are glad that it has chosen the Gate Village to establish its new flagship outlet. With its exquisite Ventian architectural ambience and décor, the Caffe Florian will further enrich the lifestyle experience within the Gate Village.”

Caffé Florian offers a variety of experiences and products to its select clientele, ranging from the exclusive atmosphere, great style and impeccable service of the Coffee lounge, to the Venetian and Italian specialties of the Restaurant, and  the Florian branded gourmet foods, confectionery, fragrances, home décor and fashion accessories of the Retail boutique.

Caffè Florian first opened its doors in St. Mark’s Square, Venice in 1720. Though baptised “Alla Venezia Trionfante” by its owner Floriano Francesconi, the clientele soon took to calling it simply “Florian”. For nearly three centuries Florian served as the meeting-place of famous artists, writers, intellectuals and politicians such as Lord Byron, Goethe and Casanova.

A symbol of style and quality, the Florian brand offers a selection of exclusive and prestigious products that represent the art of elegant living. Florian’s Gourmet range, Lifestyle line and Design collection, which are characterized by refined Italian taste and high-quality products, are available in the boutique corner at the Florian outlets in Venice, Florence, Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and through the website www.caffeflorian.com.