Novikov Italian Restaurant beckons diners into a world of culinary splendour. The moment you step inside, the atmosphere captivates with an imposing wood-fired oven, plush suede wall panelling, mirrors encased in solid oak frames, and the warm glow of rustic chandeliers. This sets the stage for an unforgettable dining experience, where every detail is meticulously crafted to create a feast for the senses.
One of the hallmarks of Novikov Italian Restaurant is the impeccable service. From the moment you walk in, the staff ensure that you are treated with the utmost care and attention. Drinks are promptly topped up, and a sense of warmth and hospitality permeates the air, making you feel like a cherished guest.
For our first course, my palate embarked on a journey with the King Crab, Avocado & Sicilian Datterino Tomatoes salad. The dish arrived as a vibrant composition of colours and textures. The king crab, delicately arranged, showcased its succulent, sweet meat, perfectly complemented by the creamy richness of avocado. The burst of flavour from the Sicilian Datterino tomatoes added a refreshing acidity, creating a harmonious balance that hinted at the culinary expertise behind the creation.
“Novikov Italian Restaurant is a culinary gem that promises an unparalleled gastronomic experience.”
On the other side of the table, my partner opted for the Linguine with Native Lobster & Tomato pasta. The linguine, expertly cooked to al dente perfection, cradled generous portions of native lobster. The tomato sauce, a blend of fresh tomatoes, herbs, and olive oil, clung to each strand of pasta, infusing every bite with a medley of savoury goodness. The dish was a celebration of simplicity and quality ingredients, allowing the flavours to shine through.
As we contemplated the main course, the Sea Bass Salt Crusted caught our attention. After much deliberation, we decided to indulge in this culinary spectacle. The whole sea bass arrived encased in a salt crust, and our server skilfully cracked it open table-side, revealing the moist and perfectly cooked fish within. The accompanying Crudaiola Sauce, a mix of fresh vegetables, olive oil, and herbs, added a burst of freshness that elevated the dish to new heights. It was a theatrical presentation that not only tantalised the taste buds but also showcased the artistry of the kitchen.
To complement our mains, we chose sides of Mashed Potatoes and Spinach with Butter. The mashed potatoes were velvety and rich, while the spinach, sautéed to perfection, provided a light and flavourful contrast. These sides were the ideal accompaniments, enhancing the overall dining experience with their simplicity and execution.
For the grand finale, we delved into the Matcha Green Tea Crème Brulee. This dessert was a fusion of traditional and contemporary flavours, featuring a Japanese matcha custard base. The burnt sugar crust cracked satisfyingly under the spoon, revealing a luscious and velvety custard. The dish was elevated further by the accompaniment of guava sorbet, adding a refreshing and tropical twist to the classic crème brulee.
To elevate our culinary journey, we opted for a bottle of 2019 Argiolas Korem Bovale Isola dei Nuraghi. This red wine proved to be an excellent choice, with its rich and flavourful profile that paired seamlessly with the diverse choice of dishes. The robust notes of the wine complemented the seafood and accentuated the depth of flavours in the pasta and main course.
Novikov Italian Restaurant is a testament to the artistry of Italian cuisine, presented with a modern flair and unwavering commitment to quality. From the moment you enter, you are transported into a realm where culinary delights unfold with each carefully crafted dish. The King Crab salad, Linguine with Native Lobster pasta, and the Sea Bass Salt Crusted are emblematic of the restaurant's dedication to excellence. Coupled with impeccable service and a thoughtfully curated wine list, Novikov Italian Restaurant is a culinary gem that promises an unparalleled gastronomic experience.
The Bill: £76 per head
