Italy is the home of Gucci, Dolce & Gabbana, The Colosseum, Trevi Fountain and more importantly, pizza!
Luckily for Dubliners, there’s no need to travel all the way to Italia in search of an authentic slice of Italy – I found the answer in Dublin City. Al Vesuvio, situated in Meeting House Square, Dublin 2 serve homely Italian food, with filling portions and rich flavours characterising Italian cuisine.
I visited Al Vesuvio’s last Sunday for dinner with my friend and her daughter, we were extremely impressed with the fresh Italian ingredients. They have a great authentic menu and also serve flame-baked pizza in addition to gluten-free starters, mains and dessert options. As a coeliac following a gluten-free diet, I’m always weary of dining in Italian restaurants. I informed Stefano (our Italian waiter), of my dietary requirements and he honestly couldn’t do enough for me. He talked me through my options when ordering each course. I opted for the, Filet di Spigola in Crosta di Patate, as my main dish which was customised just for me.
The authentic Italian Osteria and Pizzeria located in the capital’s cultural quarter recently moved from Mespil Road. They have a troop of loyal, repeat customers, who have followed them to their new location in the heart of Dublin city. This comes as no surprise to me as the food is fantastic, with italian specialities, delicious antipasti, freshly made pasta, stone baked pizza’s and authentic regional recipes. A memorable meal, good service and friendly staff are sure to make you return (or travel) for more, time and time again.
Gamberi Della Casa €8.90
Pan fried king prawns, garlic, extra virgin oil and white wine in a tomato sauce.
Chicken Wings €9.90
Chicken wings in a homemade spicy sauce.
Spaghetti Bolognese from the children’s menu.
Filet di Spigola in Crosta di Patate €21.90
Sea bass fillet, thin sliced potato with rosemary, thyme and cherry tomato sauce.
Pizza Contadina €14.50
Mozzarella cheese, potato, Italian sausage and rosemary.
Cherry Panna Cotta €5.50
Cioccolato Ice Cream €5.50
The restaurant serve a range of top quality Italian pizzas, fresh pasta, seafood, steak, vegetarian and gluten free dishes and offer a full Italian food dining experience. Their cuisine is steeped in traditional Italian cooking and all of their pizzas are flame-baked in an open brick oven.
Lunch specials are available from just €10.95 which includes two courses. Early bird options are available from €17.95 until 7pm.
Al Vesuvio pride themselves on serving traditional, fresh Italian cuisine, in a relaxed, welcoming, family friendly restaurant. If you’re searching for an authentic slice of Italy, book a table at Al Vesuvvio Restaurant, one of the best Italian restaurants in Dublin. I would advise booking in advance as they do get very busy in the evenings. Seating is also available on their outdoor terrace.
Buon appetito X
