We made plans to meet for a drink at Bar Vue across the road and as I made my way there I noticed that it looked like Massi had set up one big long table down the centre of the dining room for a big booking and there didn't seem to be many tables left so I poked my head round the door to see if I could get a table for an hour or so later. We didn't think to book given it was a Monday night. The Restaurant Manager was super friendly and assured me all would be well...
As we browse the menu we put an order through for the mozzarella, charred peppers, ricotta snow and balsamic and that goes to the kitchen straight away as we deliberate on everything else.
The mozzarella arrives quickly and it's plump and delicious with the charred peppers and balsamic adding that acidic tang to offset the cold creaminess of the cheese.It's classic and it's good.
We follow up with the dusted and fried calamari, Sicilian life guard style, salmoriglio (unpictured) not knowing what Sicilian lifeguard means or salmoriglio but it's doesn't matter we don't know our Sicilians because it tastes good.
We both enjoy our dishes - hearty, comforting and familiar. Our summary of the dishes are that they are pleasing and heartwarming. We don't think they're quite at the Tipo 00 level but the small shortfall is made up by the comfy surroundings and relaxed atmosphere. I find Tipo 00 a bit frantic to relax in sometimes and it's hard to get a table.
We decide to share the tiramisu which comes in a little copper pot. It looks unassuming but it's pretty deep and there is plenty of mascarpone in there. It's deliciously decadent and perfect for two. So enjoyable. Massi is about good, traditional Italian food It's generous and was a great destination for two girls to catch up in leisurely surroundings. The large table next to us wasn't too raucous and their food looked delicious too! |