92 November 2015 www.bahrainthismonth.com dining Oliveto, in Adliya’s Block 338, still conjures a sense of intrigue whenever its name comes up. Having suffered an enormous tragedy, the restaurant literally rose from the ashes to become a confident and elegant space, looking better than ever. We were there for the launch of its Saturday brunch; an island tradition that any eatery worth its salt has to offer. The new-look Oliveto boasts a new vibe and a palpable energy, which, perhaps, is an extension of its new director and executive master chef Giuseppe Zanotti’s personality. A veteran in Italian kitchens, his menu features time-honoured dishes from across Italy, presented with Michelin-star sophistication. “We know how popular brunches are in Bahrain, but we don’t want to be ‘just another brunch venue’,” he says. “I want people to come to Oliveto expecting the finest and experiencing it.” We started around noon, when the restaurant opens for brunch, with flutes of sparking grape. Stationed gleefully in the main dining room, we soaked in the stylish ambience of this massive space which features floor-to-ceiling windows, giving a spectacular view of the terrace outside. It offers a modern, spacious and comfortable approach to fine dining, which also extends to the more relaxed smoking dining-lounge. One of the most delightful features of the restaurant, especially for the upcoming weather when the temperatures drop, is the chic terrace with hundredsof-years-old olive trees, which give the venue a Mediterranean feel. In my opinion, the cuisine is unsurpassed. The brunch is an interesting combination of buffet and a la carte and our gastronomic cruise began at the bread station, which was enveloped in delicious aromas of fresh home-baked loaves, focaccia and pizzas. The sensational selection of starters included culinary staples such as caprese salad, smoked salmon with goat cheese and pine nuts, fregola pasta with lobster and stewed cabbage with beef bacon and potatoes. There were different kinds of cold soups, smoked on the spot, including shots of Italian gaspacio and potato-vanilla; small samples that were big on flavour. Good thing they are part of the buffet so we could go for seconds — and thirds. The mains included a variety of pastas, different kinds of meats, burgers and seafood preparations, which were served at the table. We particularly enjoyed trofie pasta in pesto sauce, handmade ravioli with lamb and burrata, roasted sardines and the absolutely amazing seafood soup. To round off this spectacular meal, there were dizzying assortments of traditional Italian desserts. All of this came with a constant supply of the sparkling beverage! This brunch was a great showcase for the restaurant’s culinary repertoire and was thoroughly enjoyed by all, thanks in no small part to impeccable service, high-quality food and creative-yet-classic preparation. Call 17 716-747. ANKITA MAMGAIN Following an incredible comeback, this restaurant is now spreading its wings. BTM got a taste of its unmatched dining experience. Served with Passion OLIVETO
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