Today I paid yet another visit to my favourite restaurant in town: Bresola. On the outside, it may not seem like much, but for those who know it or make the excellent decision of trying it for the first time, they leave with a completely different impression.
Long story cut short; the food is phenomonal. I could go on and on about each dish I've tried, from the crunchiness of the calamari to the soft flaky meat of the lemon sole. I developed a kind of mental list of all the dishes that will have me savouring them until the last bite. This list grows every time I visit.
Dishes worth mentioning include the Lemon Sole. I still remember the first time I ordered this; during my first visit to Bresola. A beautiful fillet of sole, wrapped around asparagus, parma ham and prawns, all served on creamy mash with a light cream sauce that pulls all the elements together.
Other dishes on my list are the New Zealand Lamb Chops, the A-hi Tuna (coated in sesame, seared to a heavenly medium rare and served with wasabi mayonaise), the Linguine alla Vongole with fresh clams and a garlic-chilli combination, and the Mango Crumble. I have yet to try everything on the menu, but I have confidence that whatever you pick, you will not regret.
Despite the astounding quality of the food, it's the service that makes me come back time and time again. The owner Rohan, along with the small group of staff he coordinates, is perhaps the most attentive and caring host I've ever come across. For example, tonight I was "helping" my Mum finish an excellent lamb chop, using my fork and pasta spoon. Within seconds of starting I was brought an extra plate and a knife. Perhaps it is the intimate feel of the restaurant, but I can assure you that you will never be excluded from the fabulous service.
For brunch, lunch or dinner, Bresola is a great choice. The independent brunch menu is varied, offering everything from blueberry pancakes to a full English breakfast. I highly recommend the apple juice, which I personally regard as the best I have ever had.
Other noteworthy attributes include a great wine list, a relaxed yet intimate atmosphere, and a menu that constantly updates and changes to suit the customers. Many of Rohan's visitors are locals, who are greeted by a handshake and a service full of laughter and friendly conversation.
I recommend you take a trip to this remarkable restaurant down on Catchick Street, and join the Bresola family.
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