Food Reviews
Wednesday, 10 February 2010 03:02
Written by Cordelia O’Hare
Awash with bright tones of red and green, Gioiamia’s decor will fill you with nostalgia for the old country. But come sundown, it’s a dim and subdued affair, a primo place for a nighttime nosh. The menu is full of simple classics like their razor-thin beef carpaccio with lemon olive oil and a rocket and parmesan salad (RMB82). Calamari (RMB68) comes lightly fried and served alongside a balsamic aioli for dipping. Pizzas are generously topped and drizzled with chili oil – the Roast Veggie one (RMB70) is particularly worth trying. But if it just doesn’t feel like a pizza day (is that even possible?) the saffron risotto with pumpkin, chickpeas and mushrooms galore is a steal at RMB48. Finish off dinner with a lemon granita (RMB40) and wash it all down with a deliciously potent homemade limoncello (RMB30). Or, if you feel up for an unusual twist, try the sensuously smooth limoncello cream (RMB30). There is also a charming private nook for two, complete with a Moroccan-style bed and small central table, all hidden behind a mass of foliage – an ideal option if you’re looking for an affordable Valentine’s Day dinner.
Daily, 11am-11pm. All cards. 100 Xuanhua Lu, by Jiangsu Lu (3250 7188) 宣化路 100 号, 近½¬Ë’路
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