What To Order At Don Giovanni

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DON Giovanni has been here forever. (Well, since 1984, which is an aeon in restaurant years). But when you step through the doors, the first thing that hits you is how fresh it feels. The new simple, classic design gives it a timeless quality. The flood of natural light and tables dressed with fresh fruit and flowers bring the sunshine in. It's a very pleasant place to be, which is one reason why it recently won 'Les Routiers Newcomer of the Year 2016' and 'Most Romantic Restaurant in the UK'.

In a city saturated with Italian restaurants, Don Giovanni is now confidently holding its own.

We weren't there for romance but to taste our way through the star dishes of the summer menu. With Jean Christophe Novelli now working with them on a special menu that will launch in September, this is clearly a place determined to keep moving forwards. But even before Novelli's food lands, you'll be impressed. In a city saturated with Italian restaurants, Don Giovanni is now confidently holding its own. Here are our highlights.

Don Giovanni from Manchester Confidential on Vimeo.

The Starters

Bruschetta al Pomodoro

This classic antipasti was made special by the sweetness of the ripe-to-bursting cherry vine tomatoes, liberally spread onto thin crisps of lightly toasted bruschetta. The finely milled pesto dressing was delicate, not overwhelming, allowing the subtle, fresh flavours to shine through.

Caprese

A soft-centred moon of buffalo mozzarella showed that some ingredients don't need help to taste divine. Just add plum cherry tomatoes, black pepper, olive oil and basil – nothing more needed. 

Polpette

These satisfying handmade meatballs in a rich, rustic tomato sauce can be eaten solo like this, or as a main with pasta. We suggest ordering a selection of starters such as this one, and sharing them as small plates – a common way of eating in Italy where you tend to order for the table, rather than for individuals.

The Mains

Pollo Tricolore

So called because the green, white and red mirror the colours of the Italian flag, this chicken dish felt light and nourishing at once. The delicate pea shoots were flavoursome and fresh, while the melting goats cheese over lean, grilled chicken breast was a tangy, gooey delight.

Tagliolini Scoglio

The fresh fish menu at Don Giovanni is one of its big attractions. Here we were served full langoustines encasing soft, melting shell fish, in a garlic and chilli-laced sauce that had a smokiness from copper-pan cooking. An evocative, sensual dish not for those who want to keep their hands clean. Get stuck in, it's worth the effort.

Bistecca di Tonno

The best of the mains was this tuna steak which we couldn't help devouring. The piquant sauce of sweet, skin-still-on tomatoes and salty capers and olives was a triumph, while the fish itself was tender and substantial. A balanced, beguiling dish that spoke of summers by the sea.

The Sides

Patate Arrosto

These roasted new potatoes were given a salty tang from a light parmesan crust. Purists might ask why mess about with new potatoes? Taste these and you'll understand why. You will want to scoff the lot.

Zucchine Fritte

Mild, crispy, slender, delicious. We weren't above dipping them in the velvety tomato sauces.

The Desserts

Panna Cotta

Both desserts were works of art but this was a beautifully fluid, flowing arrangement that you wanted to sit and admire before you jumped in with a spoon. Tumbling red currents and blueberries garnished the smooth, creamy, panna cotta. Vanilla notes and an almost chocolatey-texture made it an all-round success.

Tiramisu

Another winner that looked (almost) too good to eat. Tiramisu can vary hugely from place to place and this was one that balanced the pairing of chocolate and coffee perfectly. Mild not overbearing, well-formed rather than gooey, it was light and moreish, even if like us, you're already stuffed.

The Cocktail List

Venice

The mix of Amaretto Disaronno, raspberry, strawberry and lychee created a distinctive, intense drink that we declared a new favourite. Sweet and potent, it's an event in itself rather than an accompaniment. One to sip in their cocktail lounge at 5pm on a Friday.

Sgroppino

An after dinner digistivo which literally translates as 'to untie' (as in, untie your stomach after eating way too much). A refreshing mix of Limoncello, Stoli Citron, lemon sorbet, prosecco, and pomegranate, it was refreshing and subtle. End your dinner on a high with this.

Don Giovanni is on Oxford Street, adjacent to St Peter's Square.