Stuzzico will knock your Italian socks off
A FEW years ago, on a trip to the Kruger National Park, I devoured the most delectable panna cotta. I have since been on a mission to find a restaurant that could replicate that experience. I am utterly pleased to have found that very panna cotta at Stuzzico at Villa 47 in Bree Street. Mission accomplished.
Buttery, smooth, not too sweet and whisps of elachi flavours, covered in a seasonal fruit coulis – every bite was savoured slowly.
Let me start at the beginning, though. Stuzzico has just celebrated its first birthday and is a vibey Italian eatery with an eclectic mix of furniture, artwork and brick walls. The menu is changed seasonally and the kitchen is headed up by the talented young Italian Chef Vittorio Bianchi.
A man of very few words, Bianchi prefers to let his food do the talking, and talk it did.
Starters were salt and pepper calamari delicately seasoned and perfectly cooked. The touch of genius was the dip, a swirl of chilli oil atop mayonnaise – yes, please and thank you.
The arancini balls were delightful, it is without a doubt a wonderful deep fried winter starter. Filled with a creamy risotto rice, the bits of peas and mushrooms elevate each bite.
If you like steak, then the char-grilled chalmar sirloin is the main meal you’ve been dreaming off. Slices of medium-cooked sirloin draped around a plate, dressed in a chilli sauce, served with pomfrites. It is the one.
Turns out the panna cotta has taken on a life of its own at Stuzzico, and rightfully so; Patrons return frequently just for the dessert.
The menu includes a variety of Italian-style tapas and small plates alongside more hearty traditional Italian dishes. Make sure you look at the blackboard specials.
To celebrate Stuzzico’s birthday, Villa 47 is offering a combined birthday and winter special which runs until the end of next month. You can choose the option of a two- or threecourse menu off a slightly edited à la carte menu, with or without a pairing of an Italian wine or craft beer.