Located inside Amari Phuket Resort in Patong Beach
La Gritta is one of Phuket’s most romantic Italian restaurants, featuring authentic Italian cuisine inspired by homemade recipes from all regions of Italy.
Open time: Daily 12 noon - 11pm
Resevation: 076 340 112
www.lagritta.comPhuket residents and tourists alike have been enjoying the delights of La Gritta restaurant for many years, something my dining partner and I were fortunate to finally do on a recent visit to the acclaimed venue at the Amari Phuket, just south of Patong.
On arriving and being shown to our table on the outside balcony, the first thing that strikes is the fantastic views out across Patong Bay – I never thought I would include the words “relaxing” and “Patong” in the same sentence, but it feels more than apt in this instance.
The menu prides itself on specialising in authentic Italian cuisine inspired by homemade recipes from all regions of Italy – from the ancient town of Umbria to eclectic Sicily. The menu is overseen by Sicilian native Chef Marco Cacia who is constantly experimenting with new techniques to perfect the menu’s offerings. And he doesn’t disappoint.
For starters we choose the Antipasto Misto, incorporating Parma ham, salami cacciatore, mortadella pistachio, truffle pecorino, gorgonzola, walnuts, mixed cooked ham, grilled vegetables, mixed bruschetta and spicy salami marinated olives. It is quite simply divine and more than big enough for two people. The quality of the cuts really shines through and a special mention goes to the spicy salami marinated olives which are on an altogether different level taste-wise!
For main course we truly push the boat out by selecting three dishes: the Risotto Barbabietola E Gamberi, the Pizza Zucca e Agnello Brasato and the Wagyu Tomahawk. Again, the portions are extremely generous as we realise that we may have over-ordered – although nothing that a truly hearty appetite, faced with such a taste extravaganza, can’t overcome!
I consider myself a keen fan of risotto, having tasted many in all four corners of the world and this offering is up there as one of the best. A fusion of beetroot, prawns, tiger prawns and stracciatella cheese, it both looks and tastes delicious and was my personal favourite. Highly recommended.
However, the pizza was also very impressive and is to be commended for such an inventive selection of ingredients not normally associated with such a dish; pumpkin purée, mozzarella, braised lamb and roasted potatoes make a fabulous combination and a wonderful taste experience.
Last but not least, the Wagyu Tomahawk is mightily impressive. La Gritta clearly doesn’t do small – music to the ears of hungry diners – and this dish is a definite 10 out of 10 in the “WOW” stakes when it hits the table! Sitting on a bed of roast potatoes, accompanied by roasted garlic and herb butter, it makes you just want to dive in, something we do with gusto and are instantly rewarded with a melt-in-the-mouth taste sensation.
The staff are personable and attentive throughout and the only time our respective eyes are averted from the awesome views are when the incredible array of food is served.
Overall, a wonderful dining experience in a truly magical location. Leaving La Gritta with stomachs full, we feel relaxed, calm and refreshed – even tackling the madness of Patong Beach Road on the drive home doesn’t faze us, such is our state of contentment!
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