When we first heard about the new menu launch at Fiorellino, we were thrilled to give it a try but a little sad to say goodbye to some of our favourite dishes. Let’s just say we didn’t grieve the loss of them for long, as the the new menu items once again set the standards high for Italian restaurants in Montreal.
Our first dish was as memorable as the last. For starters, we tried the Bufala e Salsa, a classic delicacy with a modern twist. The fresh pieces of buffalo mozzarella were glorified with a bold salsa composed of tart pomegranate seeds, sweet kakis, and crunchy hazelnuts. To help scoop up this goodness was homemade focaccia: perfectly crisp on the outside and warm and chewy on the inside.
Next came the Polipo. It’s the second time octopus makes an appearance on Fiorellino‘s menu, and while we were hardcore fans of the first, this new take on the dish did not disappoint! The octopus sat on a red pepper and nut purée topped with thin slices of fried mushrooms and mujjol caviar, which added an interesting distinction to the dish.
Our following dish brought the sea to the table. The Pesce Acqua Pazza (aka Fish in Crazy Water) is as epic as its name. The cod, shrimps, clams, and mussels were poached in a flavourful yet light broth. You will definitely want some of that warm focaccia to soak up the remaining broth!
One cannot dine out Italian-style without carbs as part of the course (and the focaccia doesn’t count), so we happily honoured the traditions by digging into a pasta and pizza. We gave the Malloreddus pasta a try and it took us straight to Sardinia. This dense shell-shaped pasta was prepared to perfection with tender braised beef, onions, and white wine.
We capped off the meal with what is sure to become a fan-favourite pizza, the Broccoli. A bianca pizza with broccoli purée, guanciale (similar to pancetta), and a fresh, rich, and buttery ball of burrata cheese right on top.
Pair all of the above with an aperol spritz and you’ve got yourself the perfect date night with Valentine’s Day right around the corner. Fiorellino’s new menu and easygoing ambiance also guarantees a great night with a group of friends! Follow Fiorellino on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter.
470 Rue de la Gauchetière O, Montréal, QC H2Z 1E3
(514) 878-3666
Photos by Jenn Ruvo (@jennruvo) and Dahlia Merlo (@dahllii).
