Latest news with #Italian-ish
Time Out
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- Time Out
Photography: Supplied
2025 update: Mitch Orr's Jatz and anchovies may have gone, but there's ace stuff coming out of Sydney rooftop restaurant Kiln. Beau Clugston, former Noma chef and owner of Iluka in Copenhagen, Denmark, is now the head chef of the sky-high diner found atop the Ace Hotel in Surry Hills. Clugston, who grew up in Sawtell on the New South Wales coast and worked at the world's best restaurant for six years, is drawing on his fine-dining creds as well as his love of the ocean and native Australian produce for Kiln 2.0. (Though, TBH, we do miss the Jatz.) Read on for our original review of Kiln ***** ✍️ Time Out Sydney never writes starred restaurant and bar reviews from hosted experiences – Time Out covers restaurant and bar bills, and anonymously reviews, so that readers can trust our critique. Find out more, here. When you arrive at 53 Foy Lane and find yourself double-checking directions under the glow of a neon-lit fire door, don't worry: you're in exactly the right spot. In a couple of minutes you'll be whisked down a hallway, into an elevator, and up 18 floors to a spacious glass-walled dining room. Kiln opened in October 2022, and the place feels young and bright-eyed – even though the building carries national historic significance. It's located on the site of the Tyne House brick factory, home to Australia's earliest ceramic kiln discovery, where convict Jonathan Leak (deported here for life from the UK for burglary) produced pottery way back in the 1820s. Needless to say, Kiln doesn't fare badly from this prize location. Popped atop the new 264-room Ace Hotel, the restaurant offers panoramic views of downtown Sydney, peering down on the Downing Centre and Griffiths Teas buildings, and gazing up through vast retractable skylights, punctured by the tops of the city's tallest towers. The 108-seat floor plan offers a mix of sofas, chairs and barstools, all in sight of the open kitchen and woodfired oven. The walls are draped in pale linen, custom-painted with pigment made from salvaged waste materials, which gives the room a playful feel. Chef Mitch Orr (who's racked up culinary awards at the likes of Acme and CicciaBella) describes Kiln's cuisine as 'Italian-ish', taking influence, too, from Japan and South East Asia. Menu sections are unlabelled but loosely grouped as entrées, raw, vegetables, meats and desserts. There's no right or wrong way to order; take all dishes from the same section or one from each – fun for some, a minefield for others. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Kiln (@kilnsydney) The entrées are small and simple, comprising two or three ingredients each. Those that fell in love with Orr's Jatz-based creations back at Acme will be stoked to see they are making a comeback at Kiln. Here, each cracker holds one anchovy curled around a near-tablespoon of smoked butter. It's wonderfully rich and salty, an almighty hit of fish in a single bite. The tomato and ricotta tartlet, by contrast, is a light and modest mouthful – you could enjoy a whole basketful if there weren't more treats to choose from. From the raw section, don't miss the market fish crudo, a neat spiral of fish, bathed in a dipping bowl of scallion oil and housemade ponzu. It's deliciously fresh, the salt of the crudo and spring onions melding with the tangy citrus sauce. Also worth a mention is the stracciatella, which collapses in a creamy mess over grilled peach and shiso leaves – a must-have. The roasted eggplant, liberally showered with macadamias and curry leaves, is gently smoky and easily shovelled. It's worth pairing this dish, and others, with a portion of the Randall Farm Koshihikari rice, a Japanese rice often used for sushi, which is washed 15 times so it's cooked optimally to mop up any runaway sauces, oils and juices. As much as you may not wish to hear it, the dessert advice is this: consider sharing. They come big and bold. The corn ice cream – served with a firm perimeter of butter popcorn and drenched in a pool of salted caramel – is one you're unlikely to find anywhere else, and reflects Orr's palpable sense of fun and creativity. The sponge cake, topped with clotted cream and grilled apricot, is another hefty portion, without quite the visual dazzle or relentless saccharinity of the ice wine list is curated by P&V Merchants co-founder Mike Bennie, with a rotating special on tap. The intriguing cocktail menu features a Chamomile Sour with earl grey syrup, a Japanese Berry Highball with herbal bitters and blueberry and, our favourite, the Strawberry Hills Spritz, stuffed with a whopping sprig of thyme and a refreshing sweetness to accompany the evening sundown. Orr plays to his strengths at his latest venture, creating enough show-stopping flavours to match the ace location. We say come with a group of friends, order a bunch of snacks with fine drops, and settle in for a memorable evening at this new Sydney hotspot. - Reviewed March 2023
Eater
18-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Eater
The Four Horsemen Follow-Up Is as Exciting as We Hoped It Would Be
is a born-and-raised New Yorker who is an editor for Eater's Northeast region and Eater New York, was the former Eater Austin editor for 10 years, and often writes about food and pop culture. The Italian restaurant's name translates to 'little horses,' which makes for a befitting spinoff, but there's nothing small about I Cavallini. The Italian restaurant has over 60 seats in a dining room that has breathing room. The bigger kitchen allows the Four Horsemen executive chef and I Cavallini co-partner Nick Curtola, chef de cuisine Ben Zook, and the rest of the staff to expand their culinary prowess in this new playground. Getting in: I honestly was expecting to line up outside the restaurant for a walk-in, especially after the initial batch of online reservations were immediately snatched up. But during my random checking of the Resy link, I grabbed a 5 p.m. seat for two. Walking up to the restaurant a few minutes before the reservation time, there was already a short line of people awaiting walk-in spaces. A dining table at I Cavallini. Nadia Chaudhury/Eater Northeast The space: As to be expected, I Cavallini is very cool, thanks to interior designer Amy Butchko. It's a warm, bright, and elegant space framed by whitewashed brick walls in a room aligned with blond wooden tables and chairs. The back bar and the shelves above the kitchen are full of sculptures, books, and a framed photo of the Four Horsemen co-founder Justin Chearno, who died in 2024. We were seated across from a vibrant painting that I can only describe as an artist monkey in front of a canvas. Even in the bathrooms, there are painted murals, including the delightful big ol' bucket of pasta next to a trippy rock band. The food: One of the most interesting dishes I've had in a while was the nervetti and onion salad ($19). It's a beautiful, jiggly, wet pile (complimentary) of sliced and chunked beef tendons and onions, soaked in chive blossom vinegar. It's more of a charcuterie plate than a salad, and it was still a meaty wonder. Of the pastas, my shining star was the gnocchi sardi ($32). The bowl came with little Sardinian pasta, plump itty bitty shrimps, and small zolfini beans swimming in an herby buttery broth. I could have used some bread, or maybe I should have held onto the focaccia ($18, paired with a whipped ricotta and roasted cherry tomatoes) we ordered for the beginning, since I was spooning up the broth to drink on its own. The nervetti and onion salad at I Cavallini. Nadia Chaudhury/Eater Northeast The side of chilled cucumbers ($14) doused in colatura di alici (an Italian fish sauce) was a nice reprieve from the heat outside, but it would've been better suited in the antipasti section of the menu. The desserts: You have to judge an Italian or Italian-ish restaurant based on its tiramisu, and I'm pleased to report that the coffee-soaked dessert ($15) at I Cavallini is quite good. The plated sweet is easily shareable between two people — in ladyfinger terms, it's three pieces wide and two pieces tall, served on a plate. We also got the olive oil cake ($18), which was fine, but the side of marinated strawberries from cult-beloved Harry's Berries made it much better. A tip: add some strawberries to the tiramisu; you won't regret it. The drinks: While the Four Horsemen sticks to wine and beer, I Cavallini has a liquor license, so this means first-time cocktails from the team, led by bar director Jojo Colona. The results are playful drinks with spirits and, because it's a cool Italian joint, amaro. I started with the Pomozoni ($19), a bright Italian gin drink made with Sungold tomatoes, Dola Dira (a rhubarb-ish Italian aperitivo), lemon, and a touch of salt. It was a perfect summer cocktail that I could imagine drinking out on a patio somewhere. The Pomozoni at I Cavallini. Nadia Chaudhury/Eater Northeast For the main meal, I switched to a glass of wine from the all-Italian list, from wine director Flo Barth. Our server recommended the Tiberio Cerasuolo d'Abruzzo 2024 ($18), a rosé-ish wine that was served slightly chilled, lending a lightness to a full flavor, pairing well with our pastas and seafood. To end the meal, I got the frothy fun Dolce Amaro Fizz ($21), an egg cream-like concoction made with Amaro Noveis, coffee liqueur, shaken egg yolk, cream, hazelnut, and prosecco for some bubbles. The takeaway: As my friend and I walked out of the restaurant, it was cool seeing the team (including LCD Soundsystem's James Murphy) hanging out by the bar. It was also nice seeing that the Four Horsemen was still packed across the street. On my commute home, I listened to This Is Happening for the first time in a while. The album works as a reflection on the restaurant, too: I Cavallini is finally happening. But what makes I Cavallini stand out is that the team takes what they know already works and fleshes it out in this new restaurant brimming with friendly service, a warm atmosphere, and high-quality food and drink, without being gimmicky.
Time Out
08-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Time Out
A Roberta's alum is bringing Detroit-style pies and retro dive-bar vibes to Bushwick
It is no secret that some of New York's pizza can be found in Bushwick. Since 2008, Roberta's has dominated the 'za conversation for its crispy, Neapolitan-like pizzas and Italian-ish leanings. In fact, Neapolitan style has taken hold of the neighborhood, as Ops, another treasured favorite of the area, is beloved for its sourdough-based pies (so much so, that they recently opened another location). And coming soon, the Brooklyn nabe is set to welcome another pizzeria this month—but this time, the pizza is everything Detroit. Opening on Thursday, July 10, Turbo Pizza is a joint effort from brothers Max and Spencer Nelson and longtime friend Jordan Dubey, bringing wings, booze and Detroit-style pizza to the neighborhood (at 1540 Dekalb Ave, to be exact). Leaning on what they know—the threesome owns the dive bar, 101 Wilson, also in Bushwick—their pizzeria is divey in nature, with checkered floors, wood paneling and a red-wrapped pool table with a vintage Budweiser sign hanging above it. Alongside a few high tops and chairs at the bar, the booths found near the rear of the space will likely be "the" place to sit as the back wall is lined with glow-in-the-dark zodiac posters that look straight out of the backroom at Spencer's. Bringing over 13 years of experience manning wood-fired ovens at Roberta's and most recently at their slice off-shoot, R Slice, chef John True is leading the kitchen here. But instead of slinging Neapolitan-style pies, the pizzas here are all Detroit. Using focaccia dough as a base, chef True cooks each pie twice in square pans, resulting in thick slices that are crisp on the bottom and caramelized at the top. Beyond tried-and-true cheese and pepperoni options, chef True will cook up burrata and soppressata-topped squares that harken back to his time at Roberta's with a signature swirl of hot honey; as well as a buffalo chicken pizza with blue cheese crumbles and a Hawaiian pie with capicola, pineapple, ricotta, Calabrian chili and slices of green onions. But if you have a hunger that can't be quit by pizza alone, there are also wings to be had, tossed in zesty Buffalo, savory teriyaki or garlic pesto sauces. In need of a drink? Alongside a list of drafts, bottles and beer and shot combos, Jordan Dubey (previously of Hotel Chantelle) has drummed up seven cocktails for the sipping, including the vodka-based "Roasted Mint Lemonade" (mint, lemon and a few shakes of roasted black pepper) and the "Pineapple Express" (Cazadores tequila, pineapple, pomegranate, lime and firewater). Paying homage to the former tenant, the 1980s club named Palomino, the house drink of the same name comes with Ilegal Mezcal, grapefruit, lime and firewater.
Metro
20-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Metro
10 of London's best rooftop bars for summer
It sure is hot here in the UK and down south the heatwave is sizzling in London. But there's nothing quite like a tipple in the summer sun, so if you're in search of somewhere with stellar views and a light breeze, a rooftop bar is the way to go. Whether you want to gaze out toward The Shard, indulge in some delicious food, or have a boogie while the DJ plays – we think we've got something for everyone. So, if you're in need of some inspiration for your next night out, Metro has 10 picks of the city's best rooftop venues… When you're 11 floors up at this rooftop bar with views of the Gherkin and St Pauls, there are few views that rival it. The award-winning Florattica is known for its iconic flower ceiling, al fresco dining and a DJ that brings the coolest vibes – it's a spot you don't want to miss. Be sure to try some of its experimental cocktails, and line your stomach with a selection of small plates and fresh pasta. Location: Level 11, Canopy by Hilton London City, 11-15 Minories, EC3N 1AX Tube: Aldgate (Circle or Metropolitan lines) If you're a sucker for Italian-ish drinks, small dishes and stunning views then Forza Wine is another great find. Yes, there's wine, but the cocktail menu is another great selling point, with a rhubarb manhattan, apple tom collins and even a frozen cucumber margarita. There's two locations but Peckham really takes the cake. Location: The Rooftop, 133A Rye Lane, London, SE15 4BQ Train: Peckham Rye (connects to Jubilee and Northern Lines) You'll get some pretty unparalleled views of the skyline at this iconic venue, and although it's located mainly indoors it'll feel as though you're out in the open thanks to the surrounding greenery and huge picture windows. There are two bars to choose from – Sky Pod and City Garden – where you can sip your cocktail or G&T while watching the sunset, as well as three restaurants within the building. It's a must-visit, although be aware it doesn't come cheap – cocktails start at around £15, while the cheapest glass of wine will set you back a tenner. Location: Rooftop, Mercury House, 109-117 Waterloo Road London, SE1 8UL Tube: Waterloo (Northern, Bakerloo and Jubilee Lines) Moving further west, you can soak up the sunshine and the views at the Paddington-based Pergola – which has the feel of a beach venue with its rattan fixtures and fittings and palm trees dotted around. As well as cocktails you can also make the most of street food vendors serving up fried chicken, burgers and Japanese dishes (at time of writing: the menu changes from time to time). There's also a bottomless brunch on Sundays, and a DJ at weekends spinning timeless classics. You can book in advance if visiting in a group but there's space for walk-ins too. Location: 5 Kingdom St, London W2 6PY Tube: Paddington (Bakerloo, Hammersmith and City, Circle, District and Elizabeth Lines) Having opened in 2023, this rooftop gem has already made an impression, becoming very popular on TikTok. Offering stunning vistas of the iconic London skyline and lounge tables to get comfy on, it's the perfect place to unwind. Offering a unique blend of Japanese and Mexican food including sushi andtacos, you can indulge in delicious light but tasty bites. There's also Sunday sessions from 1pm to 9pm which offer DJ sets as you watch the sun go down. Location: 9th Floor, 100 Liverpool Street, London, EC2M 2AT Tube: Liverpool Street (Elizabeth, Central, Circle, Hammersmith & City, and Metropolitan lines) In the heart of Soho you can indulge in a Turkish-inspired menu and divine cocktails at Yasmin. You can use this as a go-to spot for date nights, a catch up with friends or even private dining, six floors up. The best bites on offer are the sumac duck, chicken shish and the whipped sheep's cheese and flatbread. Location: 1 Warwick St, London W1B 5LR Tube: Piccadilly Circus (Piccadilly line and the Bakerloo line) For those who like the finer things in life, venture to Seabird which offers panoramic views at 14 floors up, and oysters. At the top of The Hoxton you can indulge in some sangria, which is perfect for the sorching summer, or even frozen mojitos. It even has a late-night residency with Ronnie Scott offering classic jazz and bespoke martinis. Location: 40 Blackfriars Road, London, United Kingdom SE1 8PB Tube: Southwark (Jubilee line) If you prefer to glance out at Tower Bridge then head 12 floors up to Savage Garden. Indulge in live music, good wine and very funky cocktails – but it is on the pricier side. Perched on top of the Double Tree by Hilton it's elegant and chic, but it gets very busy so you'll probably want to book in advance. Location: Savage Garden, 7, Pepys Street, EC3N 4AF Tube: Tower Hill (Circle and District lines) Now hear us out on this one because it's atop the John Lewis flagship store, but it's a true find. Offering a stunning rooftop escape with breathtaking city views, private greenhouses, and an elegant open-air terrace, it's great for a laid back afternoon with friends. The menu features fruit-forward brambles; Kumquat Old Fashioned; and a Calamansi Margarita with a spiced ancho chili rim. As the sun sets, live DJ sets on Friday and Saturday nights set the mood, making 1864 the ultimate spot for an elevated rooftop experience in the heart of London. Location: Sixth floor, 300 Oxford St, London W1C 1DX Tube: Oxford Circus and Bond Street (Bakerloo, Central, and Victoria lines and Jubilee and Elizabeth lines) Located on the 10th floor of the ME London hotel, Radio Rooftop not only offers a superb cocktail list, but also a 360-degree views that shows off the capital's skyline and the River Thames. More Trending It's a fabulous spot to chill out with a drink, as well as enjoy dishes from the seasonal menu – but be aware that it doesn't come cheap. A glass of champagne will set you back around £16, while a cocktail comes in at around £19. View More » Location: ME London, 336-337 Strand, London WC2R 1HA Tube: Covent Garden (Piccadilly line)/Temple (Circle and District line) Do you have a story to share? Get in touch by emailing MetroLifestyleTeam@ MORE: 'We need more spaces in London to nurture creativity' – how this venue is paving the way MORE: This is the best London neighbourhood to be LGBTQ+ in 2025 MORE: Widow fined more than £1,000 by parking wardens after council delays Blue Badge renewal Your free newsletter guide to the best London has on offer, from drinks deals to restaurant reviews.
Time Out
12-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Time Out
The restaurant with the best view in London, according to Time Out
Like a view with your vichyssoise? Then you're going to eat up our recently updated ranking of the 18 London restaurants with the best views. At the hallowed number one spot is Forza Wine at the National Theatre, which is situated in a prime position on the South Bank, meaning serious views of the Thames over to Embankment, as well as a food menu so good that the restaurant has also made it onto our 2025 list of the top 50 restaurants in London. 'Forza Wine's spot at the National Theatre ticks all the boxes,' we said. 'Cocktails, natty wines and seasonal small plates from their self-proclaimed 'Italian-ish' menu. A wraparound outdoor terrace with views of the South Bank. A spot at the top of a cultural institution, in a building loved by 1960s architecture pervs across the land.' New entries into the list include Gordon Ramsay's Lucky Cat, aka the highest restaurant in Europe, which is in seventh place. Lucky Cat opened earlier this year and is on the 60th floor of 22 Bishopsgate. The food? Fine. The views? Sensational. The Portrait by Richard Corrigan is at number two, which you'll find on the very top floor of the National Portrait Gallery. We said: 'Basically every London skyline landmark is visible at once from the bright, simple and airy restaurant space, and the menu is stonking, offering modern British delights with an emphasis on the light, fresh and seasonal.' Another gallery spot, the Tate Modern Restaurant, also features on the list. We also feature a couple of spots at ground level – you don't have to be in a skyscraper for a good view, you know. Pont de le Tour next to Tower Bridge is in at number 16, and Rick Stein's riverside joint in Barnes also makes the grade (number nine!)
