On a Saturday a couple weeks ago, a lovely friend and former housemate, Kasia, was visiting from Poland. It was the day of the planned third date mentioned in my last post (no need to re-hash). We were catching up over a cup of tea and I had just gushed all the girly details when the confused man sent text canceling planned third date. I was disappointed and surprised. Kasia barely skipped a beat as she scooped me up (metaphorically of course...although she is super strong) and took me for pizza and wine.
We went to La Porchetta in Soho near Leceister Square. Just walking in the door I was comforted. It smelt of fresh dough and perfect pizza. It is a cozy little restaurant decorated with lots of piggie paraphernalia including an early 80's style cartoon mural. So ridiculous it makes you smile.
We ordered a bottle of Chianti to get us started. Notice the cutie in the background...he was smirking at me all afternoon :-)
I chose the Gorgonzola pizza. It was topped with Gorgonzola cheese and pears. Definitely unusual, but I was intrigued, and it was in fact very good. The strong blue cheese perfectly complemented the subtle sweetness in the soft wedges of pear.
The Florentina had been my second choice and it was ordered by Kasia's boyfriend. He swapped me a piece and it was amazing. Garlic-y spinach, a soft fried egg (it was actually a bit runny!) and a nice kick from the fresh ground pepper. I think this will be my order next time.
Kasia got the Pesquala, topped with aubergine and sun-dried tomato topped with rocket. She didn't share, but she definitely enjoyed!
With Kasia's boyfriend leading the way, the two of us ordered tiramisu and espresso. The espresso was the best I have had in a long time and, the tiramisu was amazing. I didn't think I would make it through the first half but there was no leaving any. Loads of lovely, creamy mascarpone...it was moan-out-loud good. Delicious no matter what, but perfect if you're in need of some cheering up. Felt like my heart was being padded in sweet fluffy goodness!
This was an idyllic afternoon. Simple pizza, nice red wine, good friends (you have to bring those...unfortunately not on the menu). Decent Italian food is difficult to find in London. It's often overpriced and rarely very good. La Porchetta, however, is special...especially for Soho...cheap and cheerful. The total came to just £60...£20 each.
We finished the evening with other housemates at the newly refurbished New Cross House. It is located at the site where #MeatEasy was temporarily in action last year. I recommend New Cross House...it is a lively place (a bit on the hipster/trendy side) with an amazing selection of bottled and draft beer. The menu looks good and the garden area is fantastic; it will be an excellent place for summer evenings. I can't wait for summer :)
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