Est Ovest

In the heart of Adelaide CBD, Est Ovest is a lively Italian osteria, caffé and aperitivo bar where the nostalgia of cucina povera takes centre stage. Cosy and lively, it invites guests on a sensory wander through tradition, with flavour, sight and aroma in easy conversation.

The kitchen champions humble ingredients elevated with care. Golden Arancini Ragu` arrive with peas and fior di latte, balanced by buffalo ricotta and prosciutto, while Calamari con Semola is dusted in semolina and pepper, crisp and moreish beside a lick of mayonnaise. Salads run from a sun-bright Caprese to the aptly named Giulio Caesar Salad, anchovy-laced and generously dressed.

Pillowy focaccia sets the tone: Rome layers artichokes cream, mortadella and stracciatella with a scatter of pistachio, while San Daniele folds prosciutto, rocket, parmesan, tomatoes and stracciatella into every bite. Pizzas revel in the classics, from Margherita to Prosciutto crowned with rocket and a cool drift of stracciatella. For comfort, homemade Gnocchi Napoli speaks in the warm dialect of Naples, and Gnocchi al Ragu` brings slow-cooked pork and beef to the fore.

The mood is convivial and unpretentious, just as suited to a lunchtime panino like Big Boy or Side Chick as to an evening aperitivo with friends. Gather your favourites, settle in, and let East meet West on the plate. Make a date and follow the aroma; it is amore at first bite.