Buon Gusto at Nile Ritz Carlton
If hospitality is an art, then Vivo has created a masterpiece…
From the second you walk in you feel cosseted, indulged and pampered; the amazing contemporary Italian cuisine is just a bonus.
Concept:
Vivo has just introduced a stellar new menu. Created by double Michelin-starred chef Oliver Gowig, and flawlessly executed by Chef Carmine Di Luggo and Chef Ahmed Rasmi. The range of dishes is innovative and comprehensive, a new take on the classic foundations of haute cuisine.
Signature dishes:
Veal Tenderloin Piazzaiola, Grilled Octopus with Green Beans, Pesto and Boiled Potatoes
Dishes sampled:
To truly appreciate the dining experience we first downed warm shots of carrot soup with a veil of truffle oil, a perfect way to wake up our taste buds. The freshly baked bread, dotted with dark olives was irresistible, so, with a dainty dish of balsamic and chilli oil to dunk it in, we did just that while waiting for our Arugula Salad with blue cheese, fresh raspberries and hazelnuts. A fresh combination of flavors, beautifully presented, it will be on our list for return visits.
The beverage list was almost overwhelming, with so much choice that we were hard put to decide. A specialty cocktail promised to be fresh and aromatic with the addition of basil, peach and vanilla, so we couldn’t resist trying it. A great decision.
Risotto is always a test of any Italian chef’s talent, and the seafood version that was next on our gastronomic journey was spot on. The depth of flavor was immense, but it didn’t obscure the individual taste of the lobster, prawns, calamari and mussels. A must try. We were really impressed by then and had high expectations of our main courses of Salmon with Potato Galette and Cherry Tomatoes, and the Beef Tenderloin, served with foie gras, baby spinach and pine nuts. Again, both were cooked to perfection, and like the preceding dishes, arranged with an artist’s eye and flair.
The choice of dessert was easy. Even though there were some really delectable options in the selection, we immediately went for tiramisu. Presented as a sculptural deconstructed confection, it was almost a shame to delve into it. It was every bit as good as it looked, and when a platter of dainty petit fours and chocolates arrived to draw a memorable meal to a close, we could barely do them justice. Sigh…
Other menu options that appealed:
Absolutely everything. We can’t wait to try the rack of lamb, and some of the imaginative pasta dishes.
Décor
Chic and elegant, with superbly comfortable seating. Lush jacquard upholstery with dashes of deep aquamarine, quality wood, cappuccino toned leather banquettes, subtle lighting and a spectacular view of the Nile.
Ambiance:
Relaxed, with good spacing of tables to allow privacy. Smooth, courteous, professional service from a very experienced and well-coordinated team.
Beverages available:
From soft drinks and juices to spirits, cocktails and mocktails. Possibly the best selection in town.
Clientele mix:
Couples, solo business travellers who know where to find great food, and groups of friends. A perfect place for a romantic date or a business dinner geared to impress.
Price range: Not cheap, but in line with the exceptional quality of food and service. You could order with restraint and have a very reasonable meal, but trust us, it is worth a splurge.
Address:
The Nile Ritz-Carlton
Corniche El Nil
Opening hours: Dinner from 6 pm – 12 am
Tel: 25778899
Facebook page: www.facebook.com/ritzcarltoncairo/
