Fratelli Fresh

Decided on this place for dinner to catch up with a friend as it is convenient and not too expensive (i.e. <$30pp for dinner). It was surprisingly packed since I've walked past here before during lunch and it's relatively empty.

 Capricciosa: Rosemary Cooked Ham, Mushroom, Scamorza-$22

I've heard good things about this place, however, I was disappointed with the pizza. Personally I thought it lacked topping, like 1/3 of the bottom is missing stuff, and not enough ham. Ham wasn't very flavourful either and neither was the cheese, which made the pizza relatively bland. The most flavourful thing were the mushrooms, but even that had a subtle flavour. Even though it's wood fired, there wasn't much taste in the dough, and just eating a slice the dough flavour took over the toppings, which felt like it made the toppings useless. Also, it's quite small for the size and outside takeaway sold similar flavoured pizzas for only around $15. I understand table service and rent is expensive, but not too the point where it's $10 more than outside. At least just be like the US where it's a 15% tip plus tax or the UK 12.5% discretionary service charge plus 26%VAT.

 Mushroom Risotto: Wild & Cultivated Mushrooms, Taleggio-$25 

However, the risotto was delicious and cooked well with a definite mushroom flavour and different varieties. It wasn't too creamy either. Serving size probably a bit smaller than your typical Italian restaurant, but I'll just go with give them the benefit of doubt that rent cost more here.

I'll come back to try their pastas to see how it compares to other Italian restaurants. Just the pizza I had was a pretty poor experience.