If you are familiar with authentic Italian cuisine and understand its flavours, then Piano B is a must visit
'Keep calm and eat pasta,' is the motto of this Italian restaurant in Jawalakhel that calls itself the ‘Pastapur’ of Nepal. The radio, tuned to an Italian station, provides the perfect score to the setting largely dominated by wine bottles. So far, so good.
A look at Piano B’s menu (written in Italian) and we were so pleased the restaurant didn’t give into the lure of listing every cuisine under the sun. The menu offers limited but authentic fares, and we were informed is changed weekly by the chef.
We started our meal with the Italian classic Bruschetta al Pomodoro (Rs 450) or Bruschetta with tomatoes, unsure if the food here was going to live upto its reputation. One bite and our doubts seemed totally unfounded. Simple in its making, the garlic rubbed bread topped with freshly sliced tomatoes, basil and a drizzle of olive oil tasted fresh and delicious.
For our main course we had Spaghetti Alla Puttanesca (Rs 750), also known as the Slut’s Pasta in English. While visually appealing, the pasta sauce, a reduction of chopped garlic and anchovies mixed with sundried tomatoes, black olives and capers tasted a bit insipid and we couldn’t stop ourselves from reaching out for salt and pepper. The pasta however had a lovely, silky texture and the serving was generous.
To end our meal before stepping out in Kathmandu’s heat, we decided to try the Sorbetto al Mango (Rs 300). While the dessert was dense and flavoursome, the chocolate dripping on the top was a bit of an overkill.
Unfortunately the Gelato which we had heard so much about was unavailable and the staff went to great lengths to explain how each dish is created from the freshest produce, the absence of which results in the dish not being available.
It is clear the restaurant pays a lot of attention to the produce it uses, importing a large number of ingredients from Italy and sourcing fresh produce from local market.
The menu also has a good selection of Italian wine and fresh organic juices. The restaurant itself is very welcoming with both outdoor and indoor seating.
All in all if you are familiar with authentic Italian cuisine and understand its flavours, then Piano B is a must visit and even if not, it’s a cozy new place to try and who knows, Italian food may just be Mama Mia to your palate.
How to get there: Piano B is located in front of the DFID office near Alka Hospital in Bhanimandal.