When I called D1 and told him we’d be visiting Bellagio, it sounded as if I was asking him to suit up for an Ocean’s 11 night in Las Vegas – casino’s, flamingo dancers and a high profile boxing match. This was not entirely untrue as the Bellagio I was referring to packed a powerful punch with its flawless flavours and unique charm.
Nestled in the corner of the Blu Bird Shopping Centre in Illovo, this restaurant graces its patrons with a Mediterranean and homely yet chic décor with many textures and finishings that are well synchronised. Wooden floors, well-sized square tables with crisp white overlays, high back wicker chairs with comfortable cushions, a blend of iron and stone fish displayed on the walls and large chalk boards with a selection of menu items and specials are set off against the bar at the entrance, a blue and white striped awning on the veranda, sushi bar with Asian grill and a wicker basket wall separating diners and the kitchen area.
Small details are not overlooked and I appreciated the “B” insignia embroidered on the napkins. A thoughtful touch.
I sipped on a mango juice and D1 a glass of Haut Cabriere as we listened to the Italian music playing quietly in the background and divulged the extensive menu which was clear and easy to read.
Our delightful waiter, Lucky, also graced us with the presence of a bread basket containing warm, salty, crusty rolls with butter.
The staff are well trained and ready to answer all questions thrown at them regarding menu items, ingredients and firm favourites.
For starters I ordered a three cheese soufflé and D1 the beef carpaccio. The soufflé was presented in a giant ramekin, freshly made and partnered with a salad of walnuts, blue cheese, parmesan shavings, rocket and balsamic vinegar reduction. This was a meal on its own. The soufflé was light, fluffy and had the intensity yet delicacy of all cheeses. A trademark dish.
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Round 1 – the blend of flavours and textures is unmatched in this classic soufflé starter
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The carpaccio was tossed with rocket, avocado and balsamic crème making it a solid starter which D1 gave a 7 out of 10 for. Not bad!
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Delectably delicious
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For mains D1 ordered the grilled Scottish salmon drizzled with a delectable soy, ginger, orange and honey marinade and a side of sweet potato and Mediterranean vegetables. A colourful main course, the salmon done to perfection.
I ordered the Bellagio style melanzane: a baked vegetarian dish layered with aubergines, tomato, garlic, parmesan and oregano and accompanied with a side salad. An appetising summer meal.
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Round 2 – the salmon trumped the melanzane mains
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Doing any restaurant reviewer proud, we plowed our way onwards to dessert and decided to battle it out between the chocolate fondant and the chocolate soufflé. The soufflé was made in the same-sized ramekin as before and dusted with icing snow. The fondant was the clear winner – a chocolate dome with a lush lava-like sauce poured over it, the rich creamy centre complimented with a spoon of vanilla ice-cream and delectable berries.
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Knockout – fusion fantasy of chocolate with a hint of acidic sweet berries
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And so ended our heavyweight eating session. We were twice visited by the Manageress during the course of the evening who was keeping a close eye on all guests to ensure maximum satisfaction. Prices are on the indulgent side, however, portions are good, service is excellent and the quality is unrivaled. A fantastic venue and a vast selection that will entice you to return.
