Anger, rage, fury, annoyance. That is what I am feeling. How did I not find this place sooner? Why did nobody mention it to me? Why did I not see Donald and Peter's rave reviews before now? The world is a cruel and wicked place, but I have to let bygones be bygones and accepted that I am, indeed, a douche for not finding this place sooner.
Nestled in Mount Florida near Hampden Park, you wouldn't necessarily find this little place. From the outside it looks nothing more that your typical Italian joint. Almost neglected you may say. There's nothing particularly appealing about the shop front. Furthermore as they have no website I had no real idea what to expect food wise. So, I went in completely blind, not knowing anything.
First impressions were excellent, very cosy, only 8 or 9 tables, nice Italian music in the background, the chatter of Italian in the kitchen and amongst the waiters. It all boded very well.
We ordered some drinks and after a quick rummage through the menu (which all looked great, and very well priced) we were recited the specials of the day. In true Italian style we took the plunge and went for a mega feast of four courses. Nothing particularly challenging for a Wednesday night I must say.
To begin, we had a duo of bruschettas - one, a classic tomato and the other with friarielli (or Italian wild broccoli). Afterwords we had a wonderful seafood caserecce pasta dish (primo) with fresh clams and squid. It tasted just like the real stuff I would get in Italy. After, yes there was more (or a secondo), a huge fitto misto (which we shared) which is basically battered and fried seafood. The batter was so light and crisp, and served with lemon its a simple and easy dish that is difficult to top. Finally for desert was a home-made amarena cherry and amaretto cheesecake. It was oh so rich and creamy. Exquisite!!!
All this was washed down with some rather darn fine Soave white wine, and the best part was the final bill, incredibly good value for money considering the quantity and the amazing quality of the food we had.
I could not recommend this place enough. A real proper Italian restaurant, which is going straight into my top Italian eateries list. I simply cannot wait to go back. read more