The man behind the ever-popular Soul Food Mahanakorn, Jarett Wrisley, is about to open a new eatery with the help of Italian partner and Chef Paolo Vitaletti. Slated for a soft opening in early March, the trattoria, aptly named Appia, introduces an Italian culinary discipline not usually found in Asia: fresh pastas and rustic, roasted Italian meats.
With a strong emphasis on tradition and simplicity, Appia’s philosophy seems to echo that of Wrisley’s well-established Soul Food Mahanakorn: “Italian products are phenomenal,” says Wrisley. “The reverence for simple, exquisite ingredients there is clear. A perfect meal can be assembled from four or five really nice things – olive oil, semolina flour, tomatoes, guanciale and pecorino, for instance.”
An authentic rotisserie has been imported from Europe, so expect dishes like porchetta –roasted pork stuffed with fennel pollen, rosemary and garlic.
Chef Paolo Vitaletti, the other half of the operation, grew up in a butcher shop in Rome and has recently concluded his tenure as chef at the Aman in Beijing to open the eatery in Bangkok’s Sukhumvit Soi 31. In a true concession to authenticity, he’s brought in his very own mother to help out with the opening.
Appia will also offer something that’s essential at a warm and friendly trattoria: a large variety of wines by the glass. The wine list will focus mainly on Italy, but appearances from France and Spain will also make the cut. As for cocktails, expect classic Italian libations.
Caio bella!
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