A little piece of Italy
by Shirley Chan
(ThermalAir, Rotorua Daily Post)
“When the moon hits the sky like a big pizza pie that’s Amore…” Just like the song, the place embraces you completely.
When the aroma of herbs wafts over and embraces you as you enter Zanelli’s – from the stylish maitre d’ in black, bold red walls, deep-green shuttered windows to golden scenes of Firenze, Chianti and Toscana – you are magically transported to the country synonymous with exquisite cuisine, wine, fashion and warm people.
A restaurant in a piazza in Rome, Florence or Firenze perhaps? In a vineyard trattoria in Chianti, Toscana? The opera, the Mediterranean brilliant seas or the snow-capped Alps? No, you are at Zanelli’s in Rotorua.
Because you aren’t in Italy, Mediterranean chef-owner Rehioui, brings Italy to you, with the freshest NZ and Italian produce, in an exquisite authentic Italian menu.
Zanelli’s offers Ciabatta and excellent starters, pastas and mains. Reading the menu is a romantic exercise, even as it whets your appetite:
– Carpaccio Rucola e Grana – Thin slices of eye fillet steak with Parmigianino, Capers, Olive Oil, Lemon Juice
– Cozze al Forno – NZ green-lipped mussels in White Wine & spicy crumb gratin
– Bistecca – Grilled eye fillet with Cranberry Red Wine sauce
– Saltimbocca alla Zanellis – Veal scallopini, proscuitto, Marsala cream sauce, Rosemary Potatoes
As with exceptional Italian restaurants, Zanellli’s has a separate menu dedicated to Desserts and After-Dinner Beverages & Coffees.
The more recognisable home-made Gelatos & Tiramisu are joined by sinfully delicious Tora di Cioccloato (moist dark chocolate cake with chocolate sauce, whipped cream and fruit garnish), Affogatto al Café (expresso with Kahlua over cappuccino gelato) and Zanelli’s Dessert of the Week.
Award-winning Limoncello, an Italian lemon liqueur is a “must-try”, just as are Grappa and Vecchia Brandy while Zanelli’s Italian coffees and coffee liqueurs complete your gastronomic experience.
Zanelli’s has offered genuine Italian cuisine for over 21 years. It continues to provide a cosy ambience for all diners to enjoy Chef Rehioui’s excellent Italian cooking and delightful Weekly Specials. Zanelli’s presents the ultimate authentic Italian experience to titillate all your senses, right here in Rotorua, with a little piece of Italy.