Experience the Essence of Italy at Tredici Ristorante
Newly opened Tredici offers a very refreshing Italian dining experience in an authentically inviting atmosphere. At the main entrance, my attention was caught up by the many unique decorations neatly set out to resemble a laidback home somewhere in the Mediterranean. Judging by the superb attention to detail, things like the frames picturing food products, sealed olive oil bottles, dried plants, stacks of old books that give out that almost intoxicating, musty, old book smell, and raw pasta on old cabinets, had not just been placed there without purpose. We’ll get back to that in a bit.
Just across from the reception desk is Tredici’s neat, semi-open kitchen, which had a traditional brick oven positioned in such a way that it lets you see the baking chamber from the right angle—a really classy touch that immediately affects all guests’ dining experience.
Further inside, the interior is a semi-private dining room adjacent to an arresting “outdoor garden” dining area. With a backdrop of a neatly arranged overgrowth of greenery on the far wall, the centrepieces of the area were an 18th century lamppost sitting in the centre of the room, and an artistic water fountain in the far corner. Like the famous Trevi fountain, this radiating blue fountain was also filled with coins from well-wishers. Remember, right hand over the left shoulder!
All these components brought together lifted the overall atmosphere of Tredici and instantly transported me back to 1950s Portofino, before Chamberlain’s book ushered structured billionaire prices into the picturesque Italian fishing village. In my humble opinion, ristorante food, drinks and service quality combined with trattoria-style warmth is what makes Tredici a one-of-a-kind establishment, especially for those who appreciate the finer details.
The Prosciutto e Melone appetizer is a delectable combination of thin-layered sweet and tasty ham, rock melon and fresh homemade pickles that balances out the whole dish. Have all those in your first bite and you have an explosion of taste that invites you for seconds, thirds and even more bites.
One of the favourite pizzas is the Mantova, which has a unique mix of Italian pork sausage, rucola leaves and gorgonzola cheese on thin, crisp dough. The rucola leaves lend each slice a nice leafy aftertaste.
Some of the most popular main dishes are the Linguine Alla Ligure – linguine pasta served with tuna, baby squid, garlic and chilli topped with crunchy breadcrumbs; Risotto Con Pollo E Zucchine – rich and creamy classic risotto cooked al dente with zucchini, truffle oil, shaved parmesan cheese and chicken instead of pork to avoid overpowering richness; and the glorious Costole Di Maiale Alla Trentina, which is grilled pork chops with apple mustard sauce, potato gratin and assorted vegetables.
There is more to Tredici than just fine Italian food. The second floor reveals a sexy bar named in homage to the 13 shareholders that created the establishment, the 13 Monkeys Bar. Some of my favourite features of the bar include spacious sofa table areas, large open counter and stools, the balcony overlooking the “outdoor garden” area below, and last, but most definitely not least, the large selection of beautiful cocktails available to enjoy.
Don’t miss the signature gin-based Nude Parrot infused with banana and milk liquor and cinnamon sprinkles on top forming the number “13”. It’s a great mix of flavours that, like all good cocktails, takes you up nice and slow.
The Stella Rouge is also a must-try cocktail in 13 Monkeys. Very popular among diners and cocktail enthusiasts, it is based on homemade cherry liquor with tequila, served beautifully with a sweet cherry on top. This drink is mildly sweet and very inviting.
All of the cocktails in 13 Monkeys demand more than one serving, and I found it virtually impossible to pick just one favourite. Aside from the cocktails, the bar also carries a varied selection of imported wine and other spirits.
In a nutshell, with its wonderfully homey ambience, great authentic Italian food and original enjoyable bar drinks, Tredici is an all-around hangout place that delivers exactly what you need to unwind. Ben fatto, Tredici!
