Source : Perth Now news
“Bringing a dog.”
The little white box thoughtfully staring back at me on the online booking form confirmed this was my kind of establishment. While (sadly) a furry friend remains a twinkle in my eye (due to a fencing issue and a human companion less excited to acquire a canine one), I appreciate a dining venue that welcomes all. Throw in a little taste of Italy and my heart starts to sing.
Bodega, a neighbourhood trattoria on an unassuming street in Scarborough touts all the pizza and pasta classics. With menu items like burrata addiction, $27, and arancini truffle bomb, $22, ordering is a no-nonsense experience. Vegos and vegans are also well catered for, with a curious cauliflower steak, $29, appearing as a main.
Service is excellent — warm, attentive, friendly. Outdoor tables are full this early evening, as we sit inside by a window, surrounded by couples, a family and friend groups deep in conversation.
A mishmash of interiors that feature aqua-blue walls, disco balls, framed photos and a lone Azzurri jersey hanging from the ceiling suggest the team behind Bodega don’t take themselves too seriously, though the quality of the food says otherwise.
A bite of the arancini’s crisp outer layer reveals a creamy mushroom mix encasing a melted “cheese heart” centre. Generous dollops of truffle mayo provide a flavour sensation that transcends your standard rice ball.
The burrata, big and beautiful as it should be, resting beside a bed of deliciously fresh cherry tomatoes and basil, urges us to sample the pan fritto, $14. The 48-hour pizza dough, cut and fried with parmigiano is the perfect side with a dollop of creamy cheese.
Bodega offers a nice selection of Italian wines by the glass as well as some locals, a reasonably priced cocktail list, beers and spirits. A 2022 Italian fiano proves a fine choice for the mains to come.
Penne alla vodka, $35, sees faultlessly al dente tubes in a creamy tomato-vodka sauce topped with crispy prosciutto and just enough spice. The linguine ai gamberi, $36, has a fair serving of succulent prawns and packs a punch with heat, with pangrattato adding a nice texture. Both pasta dishes are full of flavour and satisfy on all fronts.
With barely a skerrick of room for dessert, we succumb to the panna cotta with housemade coulis, $15. The fruity topping is sweet without being cloying, with the velvety firm custard a pleasurable end to the meal.
Opened by three friends with a desire to provide great food in a warm atmosphere, Bodega is certainly hitting the mark. While popular among locals, this gem of a diner has been flying under the radar. We’ll likely be back soon, with kids or pup in tow.
Verdict: 17/20
An easygoing neighbourhood restaurant serving authentic Italian dishes made with care. Great wines and excellent food. Deserving of repeat visits.
Bodega
16e Calais Rd, Scarborough
Open: Monday to Sunday, 5pm – late
Bookings: Yes
Contact: bodegaperth.com.au
