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2009-09-13
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Wasn't free to attend their opening party a few nights ago, as I got one of those invitation cards from an Italian boss when I visited there during the soft opening stage - but on that occasion I did try something to tame my sweet craving ! : 7.5 / 10 SICILIAN CASSATA (Frozen Version) - Although they sell this in other outlets too, you really ought to eat this on a table with fork & spoon like a frozen parfait. This is one of my perennial favourite Italian desserts ! Its made of layered fr
7.5 / 10 SICILIAN CASSATA (Frozen Version) -
Although they sell this in other outlets too, you really ought to eat this on a table with fork & spoon like a frozen parfait. This is one of my perennial favourite Italian desserts ! Its made of layered frozen zabliogne and chocolate gelati with some almond essence - a type of Semifreddi. The Inside is lined with dried candied fruit pieces. The version I love eating the most carries a liquer soaked red spongey ball in the centre, pity this is missing in this version. The candied fruits also lack a bit of their unique tutti-frutti-esque flavour...
Nevertheless its very likeable still and recommended but bear in mind its not the Miss Universe representation of this dessert. Some local restaurants also carry a frozen Cassata.. yet to try them.
7.0 / 10 TIRAMISU -
Available in a big tub as well as individual portions, I like the fact they use 'soaked' Savoiardi fingers rather than sponge or chiffon cakes as base. There was slight Liquor-infusion but its mainly Coffee based flavours. The Marscapone cheese flavour was a bit weak and in the fridge had set a bit harder than is smooth... Some people like them as an adult's version with a bit more liquer flavour (such as me! alway more alcohol!) but this version here is suitable for children which is good for worried parents....! Its not bad but can be better still.
8.0 / 10 CHINO -
Drank this San Pellegrino version of the 'Chinotto' - a type of fizzy, bittery citrus drink and is considered a Cola substitute and even shares a similar taste somewhat. This 'Chino' is relatively mild but some of the more traditional Italian Chinotto's have a very bitter finish, at least 3 times stronger than this... This is a much toned-down version which suits the sweet me haha! . If you crave the authentic bitterness, this could be too weak - a strong Negroni does the job better.
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My 1st exposure to il Bel Paese deli was a few years ago when I discovered their 半山 shop 1 day, then on another trip later went to their Happy Valley store. Back then they didn't have as much dainty and rare imports - the collection just keeps getting better.. (Not sure if I remembered right but wasn't the 半山 outlet located a few shops up from where its now situated before? I remember it as substantially smaller? ) Now its grown to offering a Buffet on the 2nd level and some simple a la carte salads/pastas and desserts on the 1st level.
I come here occasionally because some things aren't available at places even like GREAT, Oliver's or Citysuper: For one, the so-called FERARRI OF THE PARMA's, the famous Culatello Prosciutto is sold here in 'Cotto' cooked form and is 'THE HAM' to have in your lunch sandwich to make your colleagues jealous haha... and its ONLY available at il Bel Paese! If you want the cured not cooked version of Culatello as part of your cold meat platter, City Super carries that version but at 3 times the price its more expensive than San Daniele.
Although here and other shops don't carry my crazily beloved 'Aged' Pecorinos or Canestrato* , which is great eaten alone and even more appropriate for topping a Pasta, Salad or Piadina/Sandwiches as its a highly flavoursome yet mildish sheep's cheese, unlike the sharper and brute Parmigiano Reggiano's/ Grana Padano..... - they sell a unique, softer Truffled Pecorino that is not found anywhere else except another joint in MK. *Castelmagno and Pecorino Romano are also good on pasta and available here!
Other stuff I find available at il Bel Paese which are rare include:
- UK version Potato Chips, Arancini Risotto Balls, Amedei Chocolate Range, my very beloved Cotechino Sausage's (or Zampone), Nut or Olive Oils and Aged Balsamics, unique Italian Spirits and Wines, San Daniele Parma, etc. Its like the equivalent of Monsier Chatte!
Can't praise enough about il Bel Paese - fingers crossed, they will make upgraded versions of better desserts and lasagnes and food for us Hongkies! I give them '5' for Imported Goods, '3' for Desserts
张贴
