Spotlight on... San Carlo, Alderley Edge
Ange Seddon visits the best for traditional, authentic Italian food with impeccable service
As you probably have guessed by now, I am a lover of all things Italian, so when the chance came to visit San Carlo in Alderley Edge I got on the train quicker than you can say βLa Dolce Vita.β
This family-run, award-winning restaurant group has a knack of making places that exude glamour and opulence yet can be home to families and celebrities alike. On a sunny Wednesday evening we were able to take advantage of the open roof while looking out over the terrace, which made for a very classy evening. The restaurant was packed, which is always lovely to see. Another element of the San Carlo charm that I really love is the service. The various waiters, formed into some sort of hierarchy that I have never quite managed to figure out, move beautifully around the room like some choreographed ballet. It is a joy to watch.
The latest summer menu celebrates the best ingredients and dishes of the season βItβs the true taste of an Italian summer, the San Carlo way.β The heritage of these restaurants started from humble beginnings. A Sicilian-born Carlo Distefano, through hard work and passion started with one restaurant in Birmingham, growing to the 25 authentic Italian eateries across the UK. A commitment to using the best produce Italy has to offer, impeccable service and great style.
Now to the food. I started with Insalata di Granchino. A mountain of shaved fennel, radish and chives once conquered it led to the most delightful, hand-picked fresh crab; it tasted of the seaside, I was transported. I felt quite virtuous eating it; it was so fresh and healthy. The Insalata Gamberi and Avocado, again fresh yet rich prawn and avocado salad with a sharp, refreshing lemon dressing and a punchy green olive pesto. The other starters are a veritable whoβs who of the best Italian dishes and ingredients. Watching them arrive at the other tables made me more determined to come back and try them all.
Moving on to main courses, we had the Nodino di Vitello al tartufo, an elegant and delicious veal chop with fresh black Italian truffle, a delightful change from the usual meaty suspects, so full of flavour in every mouthful. The sauce was outstanding. Then the Rombo limone and capperi, pan-fried turbot to you and me, cooked perfectly on the bone making it meltingly tender. The lemon, butter and caper sauce was the perfect balance of richness and acidity, complementing the king of the seas.
The rest of the exceptional seasonal menu included beautiful dishes such as king prawn and asparagus risotto and crab tagliolini, a favourite of the San Carlo chefs.
The drinks selection was excellent, with some amazing cocktails to suit all tastes. I scanned the comprehensive wine list, a wonderful expression of the best of Italy with a few classics from further afield. They also have a choice of wines by the glass using the Coravin system, which allows premium wines to be poured whilst keeping the cork intact, preserving the flavour and freshness. I will be going back to try a glass or two of these special wines, including a particular Super Tuscan called Tignanello.
San Carlo in Alderley Edge is definitely a place to be seen, but to me it is a little bit of Italy in Cheshire, and I urge you to visit and enjoy a taste of βLa Dolce Vitaβ yourself.
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