Another post work girlie catch up session over dinner was due and having had a good experience at Stellini Bar previously I suggested it to a bunch of friends who hadn't been before.
As per the previous visit, it was a dreary Melbourne night so plates of pasta seemed like a good option. It was fairly quiet and we were the only table at one point but we were soon joined byt a large group who sat at the big table.
Polenta chips with aioli and zucchini (courgettes for you Brits) fritters tickled our fancy. The polenta chip is an usual thing with a crisp coating (almost shell like it's that crispy) and a soft centre. Pretty bland without the aioli but pretty moreish when dunked. They are like the fluffier, lighter chip. The fritterds were also good in a sweet chilli type dip; hot and fluffy with some herby flavours coming through. Deep fried goodness for round one!
Main courses were an array of pasta and gnocchi. Most were declared good. My pappardelle with duck ragu (supposed to be orrechiette but they ran out) was particularly tasty. Lots of shredded slow cooked meat, tomato sauce, silky pasta and then salty parmesan cheese coming through. Claire commented that her orrechiette with chilli, anchovy, broccoli and garlic could do with more flavours.
Pasta and red wine on a dreary Winter's night coupled with some good conversation in a warm and cosy Italian bistro makes for a good mid week night out.
As per the previous visit, it was a dreary Melbourne night so plates of pasta seemed like a good option. It was fairly quiet and we were the only table at one point but we were soon joined byt a large group who sat at the big table.
Polenta chips with aioli and zucchini (courgettes for you Brits) fritters tickled our fancy. The polenta chip is an usual thing with a crisp coating (almost shell like it's that crispy) and a soft centre. Pretty bland without the aioli but pretty moreish when dunked. They are like the fluffier, lighter chip. The fritterds were also good in a sweet chilli type dip; hot and fluffy with some herby flavours coming through. Deep fried goodness for round one!
Main courses were an array of pasta and gnocchi. Most were declared good. My pappardelle with duck ragu (supposed to be orrechiette but they ran out) was particularly tasty. Lots of shredded slow cooked meat, tomato sauce, silky pasta and then salty parmesan cheese coming through. Claire commented that her orrechiette with chilli, anchovy, broccoli and garlic could do with more flavours.
Pasta and red wine on a dreary Winter's night coupled with some good conversation in a warm and cosy Italian bistro makes for a good mid week night out.
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