Buon Appetit Camden Launch

Buon Appetit

📍 Camden 

👀 Having fallen in love with their mouthwatering creations at the Buon Appetit food truck, being invited to their brick-and-mortar restaurant launch in Camden, i was so honoured. Arriving at the restaurant, i can see why they chose this space to call home from the fairy lights to the homey indoor section. It felt like the food truck just more restauranty. I never ate at the previous Italian Food Project but always saw it was busy.

💥 Stepping inside, the first thing that struck me was the vibrant energy. The reno they did on the space was amazing, it was so fresh. Exposed brick walls and rustic wooden furniture created a warm and inviting space. With the same playlist as the food truck it was making it feel like an extension of the owners' own home. The open kitchen, with its bustling chefs and the dance of flames in the pizza oven, offered a glimpse into the heart of the restaurant.

💁🏼‍♀️ The service was as warm and genuine as the ambiance itself. The waitstaff, many familiar faces from the truck, greeted us with wide smiles and genuine enthusiasm.

🍷 The drinks menu offered a delightful selection of Italian classics alongside some innovative creations. I love their cocktail specials! I always opt for an italian pellegrino melon flavour and the italian hot chocolate of course.

🍴 I was SO excited to order of their brand new menus for the very first time. The menu showcased a tempting array of antipasti, pastas, pizzas, and secondi (main courses). To start, I couldn't resist the Burrata & Heirloom Tomato. This dish was delicious, with the creamy burrata melting into the sweet and juicy tomatoes. The basil oil added a touch of herbaceousness, while the balsamic glaze provided a delightful sweet and sour taste. Suggested by Mara herself i opted for the Insalata di Polpo. The tender octopus was perfectly cooked, the accompanying potato salad was creamy and perfectly seasoned, while the capers added a salty pop that cut through the richness of the dish. The fresh lemon juice and parsley brightened everything up, making it a light and refreshing entree.

Following these delightful courses, I couldn't resist a bite of the Fa Caldo pizza. The combination of fior di latte cheese, spicy pepperoni, and the house-made hot honey was pure magic. The sweetness of the honey perfectly balanced the heat of the pepperoni, creating an addictive flavor profile.

Tempted by the aroma wafting from neighboring tables, I also had a taste of the Rigatoni alla Vodka. The vibrant pink sauce, tossed with perfectly al dente rigatoni, definately a creamy and flavorful indulgence. For a luxurious seafood experience, we were lucky enough to get the Aragosta Aglio e Olio which is a true showstopper. This dish features succulent rock lobster bathed in a garlicky, slightly spicy olive oil sauce with cherry tomatoes. It is huge!!

✨ Thank you, Buon Appetit, for turning your dream into a reality and for sharing your family's culinary legacy with us. This restaurant isn't just about delicious food; it's about warmth, passion, and creating a space where people can gather and connect over a shared love of good food and good company. I can't wait to return and work my way through the rest of the menu!