Paesano
Westfield Knox Shopping Centre, 425 Burwood Highway, Wantirna South, Wantirna
03 9801 2000
Italian, Modern Australian, Seafood
$$$
Food
- Lamb Rosticini
- Chips with Creamy Garlic Sauce
- Diavolo Pizza
- Cannelloni Chicken
- Franco Special Risotto
The Good
The Chips were fresh out of the fryer and fried perfectly. Outside was exceptionally crunchy, lightly seasoned with some herbs and salt and enclosed soft fluffy inner. The star of the show however was the Creamy Garlic Sauce, which was a thick, rich sauce that closely resembles garlic butter, except creamier and bolder in flavour. Costing the chips in this sauce made this entrée an absolute winner and proved to be rather unstoppable.
The Diavolo Pizza adopted a much thicker, fluffier crust than a traditional Italian thin base. The dough was surprisingly soft and fluffy and was rather enjoyable - coming from someone who swears by thin Italian bases. Toppings were plentiful and fresh, with the stringy cheese and hot salami stealing the show and highlighting the flavours of the pizza. Overall flavour balance is spot on and was definitely a fulfilling and satisfying feed.
The Risotto was baked fresh (as opposed to being simmered in a pan) and of course this resulted in a nice crunchy top layer that enclosed a bed of perfectly cooked and seasoned aborio rice. To my delight, the rice itself was soft without being mushy and inherited much flavours from the full and rich tomato based sauce. Sprinkling on some shaved parmesan, this already flavoursome rice dish was well complemented by the abundance of fresh juicy prawns. A very respectable risotto I must say.
The Mediocre
The Cannelloni would’ve and could’ve been a real winner, if not for the pasta itself. The chicken was well marinated, fresh and plentiful. Combining with the rich and bold ragu sauce made for a flavoursome pasta dish. Unfortunately the pasta sheet was slightly tough and chewy which was the one and only letdown. This dish would’ve been a real winner otherwise as every other aspect was executed perfectly.
The Lamb Rosticini skewer was also pleasant although unspectacular. The lamb was nicely seasoned, aromatic and grilled perfectly on charcoal. The bread was hot and freshly made. The spiciness of the raw onions definitely added a punch however I feel this all needed a lightly flavoured but creamy sauce to hold it all together.
The Bad
Nothing.
The Verdict
Overall, Paesano strikes a good balance of authenticity and catering to suburban family diners. Portion sizes were generous and flavours hint of a true Italian Nonna.
Despite the busy Saturday evening, service remained incredibly friendly and professional.
Would Penguin Eat Again?
Sure! It is clear that Paesano doesn’t skimp on quality or quantity. Even given the busy night, they manage to serve up some delicious and consistent meals. No wonder this place was full!