Piazza Italiana restaurant will present a themed wine dinner on Friday, July 25th, titled Una Notte di Cinema e Vino. The five-course tasting menu is designed to evoke iconic scenes from classic Italian cinema, with each course complemented by a carefully selected Italian wine. The dinner will be held within the historic Grade II-listed former British Linen Bank building on Threadneedle Street in the City of London.
A Culinary Journey Through Italian Cinema
The culinary experience, crafted by Head Chef Aleksandr Sharuev, draws inspiration from renowned films such as La Dolce Vita, Il Postino, and Cinema Paradiso. The event promises to be an immersive experience, blending the art of Italian cuisine with the magic of cinema. Guests will embark on a multi-sensory journey, tasting dishes inspired by memorable movie moments while enjoying perfectly paired wines.
The venue’s architectural grandeur and historical significance provide a fitting backdrop for the event. The former bank building, steeped in history, adds an element of sophistication and charm to the evening. The ambiance will be further enhanced by a live vinyl DJ, providing musical accompaniment throughout the dinner.
The Menu and Wine Pairings
The evening commences with an amuse-bouche of Marinated Pineapple Carpaccio, a dish inspired by the iconic Trevi Fountain scene from Federico Fellini’s 1960 film La Dolce Vita. This initial offering will be paired with Plenio Verdicchio Castelli di Jesi Classico Riserva White Marche 2022. The combination of the refreshing carpaccio and the crisp white wine is designed to awaken the palate and set the stage for the culinary journey ahead.
The first course is Sea Bass with Watermelon Gel and Strawberries, inspired by the poignant romance depicted in Il Postino. This dish is paired with Vecchie Vigne Verdicchio Castelli di Jesi Classico Superiore White Marche 2022. The pairing aims to complement the delicate flavors of the sea bass while providing a refreshing counterpoint to the sweetness of the watermelon and strawberries.
The second course features a Squid Ink Raviolo filled with Argentinian Prawn Mousse. This dish is served with prawn bisque and parmesan foam, referencing Federico Fellini’s 1963 film 8½. It will be accompanied by Historical Verdicchio White Abruzzo 2019. The complexity of the ravioli, with its rich flavors, will be balanced by the characteristics of the chosen wine.
The main course, Stufato del Proiezionista or Projectionist’s Stew, is a slow-cooked beef cheek served with red wine jus and celery purée, inspired by the heartwarming tale of Cinema Paradiso from 1988. This hearty and flavorful dish will be the centerpiece of the dinner, showcasing the depth and richness of Italian cuisine. It is designed to be a satisfying and memorable experience, complementing the other dishes.
A Fusion of Flavors and Film
The dinner at Piazza Italiana aims to provide guests with more than just a meal; it is intended to be a complete experience. The blend of fine dining, classic Italian cinema, and carefully chosen wines promises an evening of culinary and cinematic delight. The event showcases the restaurant’s commitment to providing unique and engaging dining experiences, blending culinary creativity with a celebration of Italian culture. Guests are invited to savor the flavors of Italy while reliving some of cinema’s most cherished moments.
