By Majella Taylor
Restaurant News is sponsored by Newbridge Software
I’ve never been to Tuscany nor experienced the delights of its cuisine, so I was extremely excited about visiting the newly opened Cantinetta Antinori, located on Harriet Street, a stone’s throw from Sloane Street.
The restaurant concept is born from a family steeped in twenty six generations of wine making. Cantinetta Antinori is their first restaurant in London, the others are in Florence, Vienna, and Monaco.
The restaurant front is unassuming, inside unveils three floors of luxurious surroundings hosting an elegant dining experience, live music, and a private room available for special occasions.
A warm welcome by the GM John Luca, our Waiter Emre, and the very smiley Nicola, (the most stylish, content, and passionate sommelier I’ve ever met), was a glorious way to start our experience.
The ‘selection of artisan bread’ made its way to our table.
Five different hand-made breads to be exact. The focaccia was light and fluffy, the charcoal crackers were crunchy and moreish, and the accompanying olive oil was full bodied but not overpowering.
Starting with the Pappardelle al Ragù di Agnello (Pappardelle with lamb ragù) for husband. There was something rich and romantic about the ragu. It was voluminous and velvety alongside the deceptively light Pappardelle.
Asparagi con Parmigiano Stagionato for me (Grilled asparagus with aged Parmesan). I didn’t know asparagus could taste this good. The sautéed sage was amazing. Each bite of the dish took my palate somewhere special.
For mains it was the Pollo Al Mattone (Roast chicken, sauteed spinach and Swiss chard, veal jus) for husband. An uncomplicated dish bursting with flavour. Simple food done really well, accentuating the quality of the produce with a spectacular sauce.
A little bit more adventurous for me as I opted for the Cuttlefish special. It was luscious and buttery with delicate garlic flavours, it was exquisite.
A perfectly formed Torta caprese con gelato al pistachio for husband and a lovingly created-at-the-table Tiramisu al Pistachio for me.
Fluffy lady fingers sponge with a gentle deluge of coffee, adorned with creamy silken pistachio mascarpone and flamboyantly garnished with brown sugar-toasted pistachio nuts. A delectable delight that left me a little lost for words.
What’s the verdict? Cantinetta Antinori is an absolute gem.
A holiday in the heart of Knightsbridge. A journey of joyous flavours and experiences. The team are focused and passionate and clearly great at what they do.
The menu is not over complicated but full of finesse and dishes to suit most palates.
Thank you to all the team for making us feel so special.