Da Luigi

Critic´s Review

• Food: 3.5 / 5
• Service: 3.5 / 5
• Decor: 3 / 5

-By Odette Mascarenhas

Dan Brown's novel on the Da Vinci code made the book a best seller. Could there be a different code to be unravelled in the very upmarket restaurant at Park Hyatt? Where 50% of the menu dwells in the very heart of Italy, in a province called Erilia Roragna known for its black truffles and seafood. Let's start at the beginning; it is not a painting in this code to be deciphered, but a simple fawn hard backed folio...the menu. Not very difficult as it specialises in one cuisine that is Italian and has the specialities very clearly listed for easy reference. Start with the pizza. The chefs have worked on the health factor too. A choice of the regular or the whole wheat pizza - over ten varieties, easy to pick the ingredients listed for easy reference. Or perchance the Pepper Crusted Tenderloin Carpaccio with kalamata olive emulsion and pecorina cheese. That preparation would enlist a cheesy grin. Again, you have a wide variety to pick from pastas. Let 'desire' take over this part of the exercise, but a small recommendation at this juncture; the Da Luigi signature dish - Lasagna Bolognaise. The preparation is divine. Or perhaps the Asparagus and Ricotta Ravioli with tomato sauce and basil… the basil flavour could drive you heavenwards towards the Basilica of Rome. Want a 'new' avenue? Remember the chef plans to have seven fresh pastas made every day. Now for a 'starchy' march to solve the culinary code - try the Lobster Risotto with speck (Italian cured meat) and thyme. Or if vegan, try the Risotto with porcini mushrooms and pecorino cheese. The chefs have given you a wide choice on the mains too-from Sea Bass to Duck and Pork Chops. The Tiramisu with toffee jelly…no second thoughts, sit back and enjoy your very own solution to this culinary extravaganza.