Simply Fresh's Spring Menu Resumes Restaurant's Promise to Deliver Modern and Delicious Italian Fare
Sometimes we develop a complex in relation to the restaurants we like. Similar to how a close relative may feel toward a family member they watch grow, depending on your personality, you'll either want to share it with others and show how proud and excited you are with regards to their achievements or you'll want to hide it away and protect it, scared that people may harm it. Simply Fresh is one such a place.
Among the fresh flowers and paintings by Chinese artist Zhang Changjiang, we recently had the chance to try Simply Fresh's new spring menu designed by young Italian chef Giovanni Young and demonstrating his continued mission to deliver authentic Italian food with a modern twist.
After a round of homemade complimentary bread hot from the oven, our tasting began with a crunchy and refreshing ice plant salad (冰草, bingcao, RMB 38) on top of a rich and buttery tomato sauce and mashed potato, adding a little heft to the proceedings.
However, our favorite starter was the roasted beef tenderloin (RMB 88), full of flavorful chunks of roasted beef paired with crisp homemade chips on top of mashed potato mixed with truffles to lift the aroma to another level.
We loved the way they cooked pasta during our last visit – perfectly al dente – and similarly, the new assorted seafood risotto (RMB 158) didn't let us down. Adorned with shrimp, mussel, and squid, and a sauce which takes hours to prepare, this dish was inspired by the seafood that Young grew up with and which plays such an important role in his hometown of Naples. Transported all the way to Beijing, it makes for the perfect accompaniment to a breezy early summertime day.
Desserts are equally as pleasing. The pannacotta (RMB 48) is light and simple but certainly not lacking in a deep, creamy flavor. Assorted berries piled on top gave it a nice acidic bite. Elsewhere, the éclair is filled with cream, covered with a layer of chocolate, and also topped with a raspberry to lighten the palate.
So as to better get to grips with the à la carte menu, it might be best to visit during the weekday when two courses and a beverage go for RMB 98. There are also a range of special desserts for the afternoon tea options if you're looking to sample their sweets during a daytime meeting or break.
Overall, Simply Fresh continues to deliver mouthwatering and well-presented dishes that are proving too good to keep to ourselves.
More stories by this author here.
Email: tracywang@thebeijinger.com
Twitter: @flyingfigure
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Photos: Tracy Wang
