inside this small Italian trattoria, serving delicatessen food by day but by night transforming into a classic Italian diner, you will meet Ciro. Owner and head chef, his charm and wit moves between mischievous humour to artistic passion. The tools of his trade are not marble, paint or pencil but fresh fish, vegetables and handmade pastas.
Each day Ciro’s team are rustling up traditional crusty sandwiches packed with fresh salads, pestos, fabulous olive oils, Italian cured meats and cheeses. It goes without saying that they serve superb coffee too. Nightly, candles are lit, tables are laid and this intimate space becomes a place to settle down with friends and enjoy hearty classic Italian dishes like pasta with meatballs, lasagna and seafood risotto as well as some seriously good wine.
On Fridays, walking through the door is quite a different experience. Like entering the world of Narnia or perhaps a New York film-set, Flavours of Naples have created an Italy steps away from Borough tube station.
“eating here on a Friday night is leisurely and not to be rushed
Our first encounter was one such Friday, the evening was warming up with diners beginning to fill the tables and there was an air of expectation. Soft music played, reservation cards decorated the tables and there was a sense that we were joining a small private dinner party. Prosecco was served which added to the sense of occasion. We discovered that eating here on a Friday night is leisurely and not to be rushed.
The four course set menu for Opera Nights is inspired by the freshest ingredients available from Borough Market that day. Each course is served to all diners at the same time which makes this experience a shared one. The guest opera singer circulates, delivering stirring and familiar arias throughout the whole evening. It’s quite breathtaking to be so close to a singer with such power and vocal skill.
Although a long way from La Fenice, opera conjures up the sensuality of Italy and is a truly rich a compliment to Ciro’s Italian menu. By the end of the evening, as diners begin saying good night there is a sense of camaraderie between us all – having shared such a special time. Certainly there is plenty to talk about on our way home.
To reserve your table
FLAVOURS OF NAPLES
299 Borough High Street
SE1 1JG
t: 020 7407 5454
w: www.flavoursofnaples.com
