Falling in love with Italian food is something that I attribute to my food writing. Although Italian is one cuisine that has been replicated all over Delhi, it is only a few places that have got it right. Just like Indian food, Italian food varies quite widely with cheese-based sauces dominating in the Northern part and around Emilia Romagna or Mediterranean influences in South of Italy. But a lot of my romanticism about Italy and its food comes from two books, the first one being The Godfather by Mario Puzo and Playing for Pizza by John Grisham.
It seems the Chef Om Nayak shares a similar interest as he draws inspiration from the iconic book and the region of Sicily. His Sicilian restaurant, The Pasta Bowl Company features some robust food that is easy on the palate with an ambience that allows for a casual chat. We sit down with him as he tells us about his life in Sicily, how he plans to do a road trip there and a whole lot about his new restaurant inspired by the Godfather.
What to try at The Pasta Bowl Company
The reason I love Italian flavours is due to its simple, clean cut flavours that still appeal to the palate and this is how the food sparkles at The Pasta Bowl Company. Be it the soft Foccacia or a generous glob of Burrata Cheese, the freshness of the ingredients shines through, exactly as it is supposed to be in the homes of Italy. Chef Nayak believes in the power of premium ingredients as he serves me a platter of Parma Ham. He also does a slew of wine educational events at his restaurant combined with his cuts of Charcuterie and Cheese.
He fixes me a plate of two of my favourites: a Spinach & Ricotta Ravioli and a Truffle Risotto. The flavours stay distinctly true while he tells me about the new venture that he is planning. The Godfather is going to be one of a kind restaurant which is actually going to treat you like one, you can pretty much order anything that you’d want (It has to be Italian though). His new menu at The Pasta Bowl Company is going to feature food from the hitherto unknown region of Pulia, so that should be something that you should keep an eye out for.
Endings must be sweet and I end with a gentle silky Panacotta served up with some Amarena Cherries. The sour taste of these dark cherries makes it the perfect accompaniment. Do keep an eye out for the new Summer Menu at the Pasta Bowl Company.
Where: Cross Point Mall, DLF Phase IV, Gurugram
Price for 2: INR 1200-1500
