Ferrari's
Above: Ferrari's
We were starving by the time we arrived at Ferrari's one Friday night, fortified by an after-work glass of wine to celebrate the weekend. The size of this Italian local is impressive and the atmosphere informal - many of the customers were clearly regular visitors who were celebrating birthdays and enjoying friendly banter with the lively staff. A bowl of olives and bread on our table was a great way to start, and a (credit to the waiter here) well-chosen Merlot from a great wine list including lots of Italian choices received a collective "mmmmmm", as did starters of sweet scallops in the shell and king prawns with butter, garlic and chilli.
Under the disapproving eye of my companion, who had unhappy memories from school of this dish, I chose calves' liver for my main course. It more than lived up to my hopes of tender, rich meat, well flavoured, and perfect with crispy Italian bacon and a sage red wine jus. Even she had to admit she was wrong. I so enjoyed it, I wasn't even too jealous of her roast suckling pig which also scored top points, especially the balsamic roasted peppers that came too. The suckling pig is also available on a pizza for temptation another time. Shamelessly greedy, we chose crème brulee and fudge cake for dessert, and also indulged in a glass of dessert wine - again all credit to the waiter for suggesting this lovely after-dinner treat.
Vicky Smith
Place:
Ferrari's,
225 Balham High Road SW17
(0871 075 4849)
Feels like:
Bustly and friendly
Tastes like:
Italian-influenced dishes, including good selection of pizzas and pastas
Costs:
Starters from 2.75;
mains from £7.50
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