Savour Italian delights at The Italian Appetito at Renaissance

Food Fiesta, Food Festival, Italian Cuisine, Italian Food Festival, L-14, Renaissance, Marriott, Lucknow, Lucknow food, Good Food, Indian Food Blog

By Tarry

Hola lovelies… or should I say Ciao mio caro…

Well if you are still thinking which language I am talking about, it’s Italian.. And as you read this post, you will know why…

It is said that Italians know the best when it comes to food. But surprisingly for us Indians, who love good food from any cuisine across the globe, Italian food is restricted to pizza (the American version), pasta and some times, focaccia breads. And though your’s truly loves Italian food (beyond the super damn cheese drooling pizzas) there are hardly any good options around.

So when I was invited for a preview session of ‘THE ITALIAN APPETITO’, the Italian food festival at L-14 in Renaissance Marriott Lucknow, I jumped with joy… Although my happiness was half lived since my bestie was out of town, which meant I had to go all alone. Yet, a chance to taste and understand some authentic Italian food was something which I did not wish to let go.

Presenting my deets on

The Italian Appetito at L-14 at Renaissance Marriott

I must say I was really astonished by the menu. 6 to 8 kinds of breads, 6 types of Grissini (cheese sticks) 6 types of Lavash and what not… Man! I’m impressed. Executive Sous Chef Balvinder Lubana, ably assisted by the Italian specialist Chef Santosh Pal have laid down some of the finest delicacies from the land of Leaning tower of Pisa, Piazza San Marco and ofcourse, Pizza. So let’s get started (with a bit of Italian flavouring too).

THE WINE : Tutto finisce a tarallucci e vino (it all ends with biscuits and wine)

Now no good Italian meal is complete without a good wine. The fest gives you a choice of best white and red wines to accompany your meal. And for non-drinkers, try an awesome mojito or, even a good coffee.

Cheese Platter : Come il cacio sui maccheroni (Like cheese on macaroni)

This is the best way to start the meal. Different types of cheese, fresh fruits and cheese biscuits. Just the perfect start to a gorgeous meal.

 

Focaccia Bread

Origano and herb Sacchiata bread

Sundried tomato and rosemary bread

olive bread

The Bread Basket : Pan di sudore, miglior sapore (Bread that comes out of sweat, tastes better)

This one will be a favourite with people of all ages. Italians are famous for their breads and this basket is no exception. Schiacciata, Focaccia, Multigrain, bread with olives and bread with sundried tomatoes and rosemary. Pure delight, fresh from the oven.

Dips : Non si vive di solo pane (One does not live by bread alone)

Why live on bread only when you have some half a dozen dips? Take your pick from saffron and cheese, sundried tomato with garlic and olive (my favourite), pesto, mustard and dill leaves.

 

Turkey Calzone

Veg Calzone

Calzone : Ho parlato con un calzone per quindici minuti prima di ieri sera mi sono reso conto che era solo un Pizza introverso (I talked to a calzone for fifteen minutes last night before I realized it was just an introverted pizza)

Now these were a surprise for me. Because we are so used to seeing calzones oozing with stuffing, while these were crunchy with just the right amount of filling. For the non-veg lovers, do try the turkey calzone.

 

Margerita

Shrimp and Cherry tomatoes

Pizza : Mangia che ti passa (Eat and it will be over, you’ll feel better)

Yes, that’s what pizza makes you feel. Even on dull days, a good pizza can make up for everything. Hand rolled base with just the right amount of cheese and crispy toppings, these pizzas mean perfecto. The shrimp and cherry tomatoes one is a must for non-veg lovers, while veg lovers can opt for the classic margarita.

Pasiata Polo in Pesto Sauce Ravioli : conosco i miei polli (I know my chicken)

This was my favourite for sure. The tanginess was similar to a butter chicken, but the addition of some herbs made all the difference. I had this twice… ;-)

Baked Vegetable Lasagna : Non ti preoccupare che mangiano lasagne, sono gli italiani (Don't worry they eat lasagna, they are Italians)

I love my Lasagna, although I am not an Italian. And this one is pure love for me…. Perfectly baked, it’s best when hot… Like Italian men ;-)

Now for some more…. Quick bites…

Feta Cheese and Jalapeno Crockett  – Amazing…  Crocketts were really crispy from outside and perfectly soft from the inside. Try them with the dips.

Grilled Polenta Steak with Saffron Sauce – Worth trying. Btw, this is vegetarian.

And the best came in the end. The wonderful pâtissier, Chef Jitendra Upadhyay whips up some awesome Italian desserts for all. He whipped up an awesome Tiramisu for me with coffee and hazelnut, which was so sinful. Infact, I named it ‘Death by Tiramisu’. Here’s a small video :

 

L to R : Chef Balvinder, Chef Jitendra and Chef Santosh

Mark the dates : 7^th April to 16^th April, dinner time.

Cost : INR 1350 plus taxes (it’s a Buffet)

Venue : L-14 at Renaissance Lucknow

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