Prestissimo Lunch - The Grill, Grossi Florentino

A celebratory lunch demands a nice venue, and The Grill at Grossi Florentino is certainly nice. They also understand the need for prompt and cheerful service so that we can get back to work on time.

Calamari Fritti
Fried Calamari with borlotti beans, marinated eggplant and radicchio

Most of us got the fried calamari. I think it was a good choice! The calamari was fresh and tasty, with a crunchy, light batter. The addition of borlotti beans was quite a nice touch, with a creamy texture contrasting the crunch of the batter and the tender calamari. An acidic lift came from the addition of marinated eggplant and the bitter radicchio and rocket leaves further lightened the dish.

Il Pesce
Salmon with braised peas and burnt butter sauce

For mains, the simple grilled salmon was another popular dish on our table. While it seemed a little underwhelming, everyone agreed that the fish was beautifully cooked, but the burnt butter sauce was a too subtle. I liked the braised peas with the distinctly buttery finish though.

La torta
Ricotta cheese tart

I finished lunch with a rich, moist ricotta tart that ate more like a cake. Filled with diced candied fruits, it reminded me of a cassata, but with a shortcrust.

And I couldn't go past a good strong coffee and crisp biscotti.

Caffee Lungo and biscotti

More photos: Lunch with Nuz 2010.09.21

Grossi Florentino
(03) 9662 1811
80 Bourke St
Melbourne VIC 3000
The Grill, Grossi Florentino

Reviews:
- Grossi Florentino, by Larissa Dubecki, Epicure, The Age September 1, 2009
- Grossi Florentino - Frommer's
- Melbourne Food Review: Grossi Florentino: The Grill (Pre-theatre Dinner) by Kat on 10 September 2009 - Spatula, Spoon and Saturday
- NOT: Grossi Florentino Grill, Melbourne, by Jetsetting Joyce - October 15, 2009 - MEL: HOT OR NOT