For most, a restaurant is just a place to eat, but for the community in Bahrain, Cico’s Italian Restaurant is a landmark of nostalgia and culinary excellence. Since it opened in 1978, Cico’s has managed to do what few places can: stay relevant and cherished for nearly fifty years.
Located in the lively heart of Adliya, it has transformed from the first Italian trattoria in the Gulf into a home away from home for generations of diners. It blends a sophisticated atmosphere with the kind of heartfelt cooking that only a true classic can provide.
Cico’s is one of the oldest Italian restaurants in the region, and it wears that badge proudly. Founded by Faieq Alzayani, it began at a time when Bahrain’s dining scene was just getting started. Over the years, it has become a key landmark of the Adliya district, serving as a meeting spot for everyone from international celebrities and diplomats to families celebrating life’s milestones.
This rich history creates an authentic atmosphere that relatively newer restaurants find hard to replicate. When you dine here, you participate in a legacy that has helped shape the Kingdom’s hospitality culture. It feels effortlessly homely.
Cico’s charm lies in its choice to avoid trends, instead opting for a classic Trattoria style that feels both upscale and incredibly inviting. The interior features iconic whitewashed stone walls, rustic grape vine replicas, and warm lighting that evokes the spirit of a traditional Italian tavern.
It’s a space that feels personal and intimate, making it just as suitable for a romantic anniversary dinner as for a lively, multi-generational family gathering. By focusing on comfort and elegance instead of extraneous details, Cico’s ensures that the focus remains on the company and the food.
At the heart of Cico’s lasting appeal is a menu that showcases the diverse regions of Italy, from the rich tastes of the North to the sunny ingredients of the South. The kitchen team emphasises fresh, high-quality produce, making their pasta, bread, and sauces daily to ensure every bite is remarkable.
Whether it’s their signature Cernia Alla Griglia (grilled hammour) or their famous thin-crust wood-fired pizzas, the food is straightforward yet consistently delicious. This commitment to simple yet excellent cooking is why regulars have been ordering the same favourite dishes for over forty years.
A true Italian dining experience is never complete without the perfect pairing, and Cico’s offers one of the most extensive beverage programmes in Bahrain. Their wine cellar is carefully selected to complement the bold flavours of their menu, featuring choices that please both casual drinkers and serious wine lovers.
Additionally, their modern mixology program introduces a contemporary twist to the restaurant, providing expertly crafted cocktails and Negronis that make the outdoor seating area a favourite spot for socialising in Adliya.
Cico’s excellence has not gone unnoticed by loyal customers; it has also received official recognition from industry experts around the world. The restaurant has earned an impressive collection of awards, including the “Golden Award” in Madrid, Spain, and the title of “Best Restaurant” at the International Hotel and Restaurant Awards.
Locally, it has stood out in the Bahrain Confidential Best Restaurants Awards twice – in 2023 and 2025 – voted by both hospitality leaders in Bahrain as well as the public. They have received the Seven Star Global Luxury Award and the Italian Cuisine In The GCC Award, confirming their status as a world-class culinary destination that continues to set high standards for quality in the region.
READ MORE: Italian Restaurants in Adliya
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