RUSTICO TAPAS BAR REVIEW

When a restaurant wins multiple Gold Plate Awards among a bunch of other prizes, it's definitely time to experience it for myself. Brad took me on a date to Rustico Tapas Bar for my birthday last week. While I very rarely drink, a cocktail menu such as Rustico's calls for a few glasses (especially since we'd already pre-planned a taxi!). We started with a jug of the Rose, Raspberry and Ginger Sangria, which did not disappoint. An added bonus was the inclusion of the wooden strainer, preventing fruit an ice making a splash in your glass. Simple, yet effective.

We ordered four tapas dishes to share, the first being my all-time favourite Free Range Pork Belly, served with apple puree and sticky pedro ximinez. This dish was hard to fault, with a delicious sliver of crackling on each piece. Then we had the Scallops and Chorizo (in my opinion, the perfect combination), with pear puree and candied jamon.

After a first two dishes, we waited a fair while for the next. While we both agreed that the break did allow our stomachs to settle, we did feel somewhat neglected and at one point had decided they'd actually forgotten about us. We had fantastic service prior to this, so we let this one slide. The Petit Mignons accompanied by asparagus and sweet potato puree were absolutely delicious and seasoned to perfection. By the time the Duck Two Ways was served, we were feeling rather satisfied. The duck croquets were full of flavour, and easily my favourite of the duck dish.

We ordered another round of cocktails, since I can't resist an Appletini. Brad had a Long Island Ice Tea, which he was very happy with.

If truth be told, the four dishes between the two of us and a dessert to share would have been the perfect amount. Instead, manned up and ordered a couple of desserts to share. We had the Churros Con Chocolate served with milk chocolate and butterscotch dipping sauces, and the Dessert Tasting Plate. The Churros were drenched in a mouthwatering cinnamon sugar, and while I'm a sucker for melted chocolate, the butterscotch was our favourite dipping sauce. I loved the idea of the Dessert Tasting Plate, as I usually just want one of everything on the dessert menu. The macaroons and tarts were delectable, while the vanilla slice left much to be desired. The glass of cream, chocolate, sponge cake and coffee beans was a great end to an overall very impressive dining experience.

With such a great ambience, I'll without a doubt be back at Rustico's, and the sooner, the better! I'm already eyeing off the paella (best shared between four).

PS. Today marks 95 years since the end of WWI, so don't forget to honour the one-minute silence on the eleventh hour, on the eleventh day, on the eleventh month, in memory of all those who suffered in wars or armed conflict.