Issue link: https://maltatoday.uberflip.com/i/881840
maltatoday, SUNDAY, 1 OCTOBER 2017 34 Food FR AN FARRUGIA FORNELLI is a new family res- taurant boasting tasty Italian inspired cuisine quietly tucked at the Bay Street Complex, away from all the buzz and craziness of Paceville yet still in the heart of the entertainment hotspot, making it the perfect spot for a fun and relaxed night of dining out. Having opened in June, I didn't know much about Fornelli, so I was looking forward to making my way to Bay Street to try out this new joint and see what it has to offer. And I am so grateful that I did! Upon arriving, I was impressed by how stunning the restaurant looked. Simple yet elegant décor both inside and outside. With the chic marble bar and seductively simple light- ing, I instantly fell in love with the place. I was introduced to Jesmond, the head chef at Fornelli, who told me about his involvement in the catering world, which spans to over 20 years. This showed me that he is the kind of person who knows what he was doing, and as I spoke to him I realised how passionate he is about food. He is constantly striving to im- prove his work, and is not afraid of a challenge. He explained to me that they are willing to cater to anyone who visits the restau- rant, sparing no effort to ensur- ing that each patron is given the best dining experience that they can offer, which is always a bo- nus in my books. As I browsed through the menu, it was clear that Fornelli wholeheartedly abide by what they state; with hints of Italian cuisine in every dish and one of my preferred Italian inspired in- gredients, artichokes, being fea- tured in numerous dishes. I was fascinated by the original and interesting ingredient combina- tions they offered, such as one of the appetizers which caught my eye, "Il Gran Pate", which is pork liver and prune pate wrapped in Italian speck served with a honey drizzle, instantly tantalising my taste buds! I opted for the ca- lamari fritti as a starter, a staple in Italian cuisine and one of my personal favourites. As the wait- ress brought over my starter, I felt like a kid in a candy store. The presentation was excellent, and the taste was absolute per- fection. Just the right amount of salt and seasoning, with the tar- tar sauce creating just the right balance for my palate. I then opted for a chicken salad. Not something I would usually order, but I found the fusion of pink peppercorns and red pesto mayo quite intriguing, and I am so glad I went for it. It was light, fresh, and adequately zesty. The ideal lunch on a hot summer's day. Up next was pas- ta, which I was so ardent to try. I chose the risotto langoustine, with crab and asparagus which was absolutely sensational. The watercress garnish created the perfect crunch, and the taste of the ocean ran through it in every bite. Divine! Up next, somehow still being able to keep my belt buckled up, I was treated to a flavoursome rib eye steak, the chef's specialty. Char-grilled and exuding flavour, it was just what I needed to end this meal, along with a glass of fine red wine. Ah, delightful. My advice to you is to make your way to Fornelli Restaurant open Monday to Sunday from noon till 3pm and 6pm to 11pm at Level 4 Bay Street Complex, to dine in a lovely quaint ambi- ance and enjoy delicious Italian inspired food made with amore! Resto of the week Made with grapes from the Parafada vineyard in Serralunga d'Alba, it has a complex structure reflecting the particular characteristics of the terrain. Fragrant and inviting, with its notes of rose, tangerine and violet, the palate has tannins of great quality, evolving into balsamic and floral aromas. COLOUR: Ruby red with purple and garnet reflections. AROMA: Slight scent of black raspberries and cherries with a background of vanilla. Ethereal with good structure. TASTE: Full-bodied, austere and concentrated with a good balance of acidity and tannin. FOOD AFFINITY: Braised or roasted meats, wild game, seasoned and strong cheeses. To be decanted and served at a temperature of 18° C. Exclusively imported by Charles Grech & Co. Ltd, Valley Road, Birkirkara T: 2144 4400 Barolo Parafada 2011, Palladino Piedmonte, Italy Family frenzy at Fornelli Fornelli 4 Bay Street Complex, St Julian's Tel: 21374243 WINE OF THE WEEK