Located near Beverly Hills, Il Celio has a discrete yet intriguing presence. The entrance is an archway nestled in an array of greenery. We passed through into the courtyard where we dined for the evening. There is a romantic yet lively feel to the courtyard, with ivy tumbling down the walls, fairy lights, and two eye-catching large chandeliers hanging from a clear roof allowing you to gaze at the stars.
As a traditional Italian Restaurant, the menu includes all the dishes you'd expect to find when dining in Rome. Those with allergies are well catered for. The sea bass is a must try, being prepared and filleted as a table side service. We experienced on point service, our wine glasses were continually topped up as we sipped them.
To begin I ordered the Zuppa di Pomodoro, a delicious Homemade Tomato Soup with Seasoned Croutons. The soup was creamy and thick, you can't beat true homemade soup.
"We had a magical night at Il Celio, whole heartily recommend it."
Next we ordered antipasti of Sfogliatina di Salmone, Sardinian Flatbread Layered with Shaved Red Onion, Caper Berries, Roma Tomatoes and Mascarpone Cheese, topped off with Scottish Smoked Salmon. The salmon was simply perfect, and the Sardinian flatbread is crisp, tasty bread.
We decided on the Loup D Mer, which was Grilled Whole Mediterranean Sea Bass served with Braised Cherry Tomatoes and Rosemary Potatoes, and a think Italian Parsley Sauce. The fish was cooked to perfection, I cannot find a bad word for it and enjoyed every mouthful. We also had the Filetto di Manzo, which is Grilled Prime Beef Filet Mignon served with sautéed Spinach, Garlic Mashed Potatoes and Bordelaise Sauce. The beef was incredibly tender and delicious, and again their sauce was just beautiful.
Like all fine Italian restaurants there was an indulgent selection of desserts. We settled on a Cuore di Cioccolata, a heart shaped Flourless Chocolate Cake layered with Dark Chocolate mousse and fresh Raspberries. We enjoyed finishing every last bite and retuning the plate clean.
We enjoyed a bottle of Rocca Delle Macie, 2010, Chianti Classico throughout our evening. A ruby-red Italian wine, with a fresh and interesting blend of berries and cherry. We had a magical evening at Il Celio and I would whole heartily recommend this to anyone looking to share a romantic or intimate evening with a partner.
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The Bill: £69 per head
