Caruso Ristorante Italiano sits at one of the corners of LRI Plaza along N. Garcia st. in Makati. Shaded by large trees, you’ll hardly notice it as you pass along. That’s why it’s taken me more than a decade to step foot inside the restaurant.
Entering the place, I was surprised how spacious it was, perfect for large groups. There’s a nice view of the open kitchen and the gilded wood fired oven. The tables had immaculately pressed white table cloths and there’s a sense of order but still inviting like a dressed up dining room at home.
Start off your meal with a glass or two of wine, my preference is white.
The wine pairs perfectly with the platter of Misto di Affettati Italiani e Verdure Marinate/Italian Cured Meats (P1,630). Olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and artichokes served to balance the flavor with tanginess.
Buffula Caprese (P600). Large slices of tomatoes and smooth buffalo mozzarella drizzled with olive oil and basil. One of my favorite Italian appetizers.
Tagliattelle Crema Tartufo (P630). Simple looking pasta dish that was a bit lacking in flavor for me except for the punch of the parma ham.
Garganelli Porcini (P620). An earthy tube shaped pasta dish with good flavor all throughout. I’d order this again.
Gnochetti di patate alla Brava (P590). 3 different versions of their house made gnocchi. The pesto was my favorite of the three.
Crepe Mushroom (P680). Rolled dough stuffed with porcini mushroom. This uses the same sauce as the garganelli pasta we had before but the rolled dough added a crusty texture.
Jumping Rice (P530). A traditional Milanese dish of pressed and pan fried risotto dusted with parmesan cheese. This was interesting texture wise but I still prefer my risotto the usual way.
Pizza Margherita (P630). Tomato, mozzarella and basil, a very basic pie that shows off their skill in pizza making. The crust is tasty while the middle was sturdy enough and stayed in shape.
Cheese Pizza (P600). The chef’s at Caruso can try to shape your pizza upon request like this cat. It looks a bit like one from Halloween but I’ve also seen them make a Winnie the Pooh one. I wonder if they can make a Hello Kitty one.
Lapu Lapu Favignana (P830). A lighter option for people looking to avoid the carbs. Pan fried silky lapulapu topped with a tangy caper and olive sauce.
Stinco d’agnello Brasato in Vino Rosso (P1,360). Braised lamb shank in red wine sauce. Fork tender meat with a nice red wine sauce.
(click for full sized photos)
We tried a quartet of desserts but only the Pannacotta (P320) made an impression with me. It was creamy and luscious.
Dining at Caruso Ristorante Italiano is pretty expensive but you can expect good service, quality imported ingredients and skill in preparation of classic Italian dishes. It’s the perfect place to have a special date with that special someone.
Caruso Ristorante Italiano
G/F LRI Plaza, 210 Nicanor Garcia St.Bel-Air, Makati City, Philippines
Contact No.: (02) 895-2451
Facebook Page: Caruso Manila
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