So my housemate kept telling me to go to this place. I was a bit, 'yeh whatever, I've seen enough cafes with cute scooters in the front windows'. Not that I have a problem with cute scooters, I just assumed it'd be over-priced and only serve rocket and pumpkin wraps and peppermint tea. I was wrong. I wildly underestimated Modinetti. I think this is the best place I've eaten in ages! Modinetti does breakfast and lunch - good for the quick stop or a lazier magazine reading morning. The atmosphere inside is pleasant and laid-back and I was pleasantly surprised to find out there was a nice shady outdoor seating area out the back. The inside area is really lovely without being too over-considered. The staff are friendly but not forced. There is a nice buzz in the place - I overheard lots of friendly gossip and chitter chatter.
Now for my favourite part - the menu. It's all Casalinga Italian - 'casalinga' meaning domestic or homemade. The dishes are all fairly basic but delicious - simple combinations of flavours that you wouldn't get at many Italian restaurants. There is a range of vegan and gluten free options. Everything is incredibly cheap - $6 for a medium sized soup or a breakfast dish or a little pizza or a salad. $7 for a focaccia. This morning I had the Brodo - a clear broth with chicken parmesan meatballs. It was light and refreshing, with a light sprinkle of herbs and a crusty piece of sourdough toasted with olive oil. Cracked pepper and parmesan on top. The perfect summer lunch.
I can't wait to come back here, will have to try and wake early enough for breakfast. My only criticism is that I wish it were open on Sunday mornings! read more