Grossi Florentino Cellar Bar
80 Bourke Street, CBD
03 9662 1811
Italian
$$$
Food
- Lasagne
- Gnocchi
- Pork Sausage Paccheri
- Steak Florentine
The Good
The Lasagne was very tasty and was definitely the crowd favourite. Loaded with an abundance of cheese, the layers of pasta sheets were cooked to a nice al dente. Within, we found an overspilling mixture of soft and flavoursome minced beef cooked in a fragrant tomato base.
We also enjoyed the Steak Florentine. Cooked to a nice pink inner, the protein was flavourful and juicy. Lightly dressed with various herbs that perfectly complemented the beefy aroma, the steak definitely delivered on flavour, though could’ve been more tender.
The Mediocre
Pork Sausage Paccheri was a highly anticipated dish, though . While the basic tomato base sauce was once again flawless and pleasant, the paccheri was a tad undercooked for our liking. Most of the flavour though, originated from the pork sausage. However the pork itself was too heavily spiced with herbs which distracted away from the pork aroma itself.
The Bad
The Gnocchi felt lacking, both in flavour and in substance. While the gnocchi was nice and soft, it wasn’t particularly fluffy. The tomato base was fragrant though we could’ve used a lot more of it, as the whole dish felt undeniably bland.
The Verdict
While Grossi used to be one of my favourite Italian eateries, this visit clearly shows that they have become far too complacent and standards have slipped. With a plethora of authentic Italian choices springing up in Melbourne, the level of food served tonight simply can’t compete.
Would Penguin Eat Again?
Maybe, but it’s a very very hesitant maybe.