Noci
Photo © Anne-Marie Minhall
In Italian it means 'walnut' ..
I'm out with the Bestie for an early supper in North London. Islington.
Opened three years ago here in N1, Noci now has spread its wings east and south with branches in Shoreditch, Battersea and Richmond.
This was my first visit & I had a peep at their website beforehand, (of course I did, see previous restaurant reviews, I have form).
Here's what Noci is all about ..
'Fresh, handmade pasta, Sicilian street food-inspired snacks and house spritz. Inspired by travels across Italy, with a sprinkling of seasonality to lift each dish. The Genovese ragu, with a tableside serving of Tête de Moine cheese has become a Noci staple for good reason and don’t overlook the snacks and desserts, they are a moreish beginning and end to your meal.'
My word, it did not disappoint. Really top & friendly, helpful service, very decent selection of wines & the menu - ooh - well here we go.
Bestie has been before & began by saying:
"The house baked focaccia is fantastic .."
Me: "I'm off bread for Lent but you have some."
BFF: "No worries."
I spy the slightly disappointed face though.
To begin & to share ..
Fritto Misto, Squid, Mussels, Red Mullet, Parsley, Caper & Chickpea Fritters, Lemon & Black Pepper Mayo
Burrata, slow-cooked Baby Tomatoes, Roasted Tomato Cream & Black Olive Oil
For the main event ..
I went for King Prawn Raviolo, Basil, Lemon & Chive
Whilst the compadre decided upon Pappardelle, Gorgonzola, Radicchio, Hibiscus & Toasted Hazelnuts
Before we knew it, puddings had been ordered ..
A Chocolate & Hazelnut Budino on one side of the table & on mine, Plant-based Chocolate Mousse, Olive Oil, Maldon Sea Salt, Marcona Almonds
Photo © Anne-Marie Minhall
We feasted well & all was mighty delicious. Not too much either - my kind of portions - not overwhelming.
I'll definitely be back & I think Robert would like it here next time he's in London. It feels good to support a growing, independent restaurant enterprise which is genuinely passionate about the food they're creating & cooking & serving up to happy folk - like me.
Next time, I'll definitely be ordering that Focaccia with Datterini Tomato, Garlic, Rosemary & Sea Salt.
Once that Lent is at an end.
AMM
