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This week I went to check out the latest offering from the Polpo group - Mele e Pere. I had been dying to try this place - being a big fan of Polpo but slightly put off by the non-booking system and tables squished so close together you elbow next door on your way to the loo. Everytime I tried calling before though I couln't get through - I think the wrong nmber was listed. After I found the place - I walked past twice mistaking it for somewhere else as I was looking for a smaller entrance - I was amazed by how airy and light it was - especially for a basement. With so much space between tables and the diners in that lunchtime - no conversations to be overheard here!
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The quality of the decor is matched by the cuisine or rather the decor pales into insignificance in the face of the dishes. Each one delighting the senses. From the appearance of the bread basket with the freshest, tastiest different varieties - a soft focaccia, crunchy breadsticks, you're spoilt for choice. Each morsel bursts with flavour - the Sardinian ham melts in your mouth, whilst you could taste the sunshine in the peppers bringing out the best of the buffalo mozzarella salad; also a treat for the eye with all those bright colours.
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Then the raviolini were like no other I had ever tasted stuffed with ricotta and veggies, drizzled with pesto. Just the perfect amount to satiate the appetite. I also tried my friend's risotto with lamb neck and mint - an odd combination for a risotto but which oddly works well together with soft rice and tender lamb.
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After this and washing it down with a beautiful verdicchio there was no more room for pudding. A pity as Jay Rayner - who I was surprised to not see there normally seeing him in the newest restaurants - had already been and written about Zabaglione - one of my hot favourite desserts that is so simple but perfect if done well.
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A versatile place - with a lunchtime set menu as well as pre theatre menu, pastas and bigger mains. I will be bearing this plce in mind for future, especially lunch meetings.
Mele e Pere, 46 Brewer St, London, W1F 9TF 0207 096 2096 info@meleepere.co.uk
www.trisori.com
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