Nestled in the ever bustling market of GK 2, M Block Market, lies an Italian masterpiece so straightforward yet mesmerising that it takes your breath away. Brainchild of Mr. Oscar Balcon, a retired Italian banker Artusi Ristorante e bar is considered as one of the best Italian restaurant in our city. It is relatively new and has been open for nearly two years.The dining area is exquisite, clean and elegant and is a superb setting for the carefully crafted menu. The latter features a wide range of pastas as well as some very tasty fish and meat dishes. To accompany the food there is an extensive wine list focused on Italian wines ranging from the reasonably priced to some truly expensive options.
Food Talks
The food is authentic warm homely North Italian food, not the spicy crass that is passed off for one. The wine list is a good mix of old world and new world. Rape noci e caprino (INR 590) consisting of roasted beets, green apple, walnuts, green salad and Caprino cheese finished with croutons, extra-virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar. A light and hearty kickstart to our meal. Tomino (INR 590) comprising of finest imported soft cheese gently melting over roasted bread with sautéed mushrooms and truf. It has very earthy flavours and yet the taste of cheese and mushrooms explode on your palate. Next to follow was Raviolo Agli Asparagi (INR 820) hand made square shaped pasta pocket filled with spinach, herbs and ricotta cheese. Set in a butter, sage and asparagus sauce.
Coppa Di Maiale Scallapara (INR 1280) is a dish consisting of finest imported grilled pork coppa (muscle of the pork, right behind the head). Fillets sliced grills side and served with rosemary potatoes, grilled onion rings and herbed tomato, topped with crunchy artichokes. Braciola di maiale (INR 1280) is finest imported pork chops grilled to perfection served with vegetables. The pork chops were really juicy and for me it is a party in the mouth kind of dish. End you meal either with Tiramisu (INR 780) or Panna Cotta ( INR 780). Two opposite ends of spectrum with the Panna Cotta being sinfully sweet and nutty with the presence of almonds in it. The tiramisu on other end was having the distinct flavour of coffee and brandy.
In a nutshell, a dinner at Artusi is a grand experience which you don’t want to get over. One runs out of adjectives while describing the place and its food. I am sure its a labor of love by the owners who don’t compromise with the quantity and quality of the food served and offer the highest levels of service, authentic ingredients and mouth watering food to their patrons.
