Former MKR winner Simone Presta is making waves in Brisbane's culinary scene with his latest venture, Romeo, an Italian small plates restaurant in Bulimba. Presta, who won the 2024 season of My Kitchen Rules with partner Viviana Barile, has brought his unique vision to life in this new space, offering an 'elevated casual' dining experience. What makes Romeo stand out is its focus on imaginative Italian small plates, a departure from the classic pizza restaurant or trattoria-style venues that dominate the scene.
Presta's menu is a celebration of creativity, featuring a generous list of small plates designed to be shared. From crumbed burrata with cherry tomatoes to charred beef lasagne skewers and crispy potato tartan with seared scallop, each dish offers a unique twist on traditional Italian flavors. The 10-course degustation menu is a highlight, presenting eight small plates and two desserts, allowing diners to embark on a culinary journey through Italy.
What makes Romeo truly fascinating is Presta's ability to strike a balance between familiarity and innovation. While the menu offers traditional Italian dishes, such as pasta and risotto, there's a subtle twist to each. For instance, the prawn risotto comes with zucchini cream and mint, and the bolognese is a white ragu number. This approach not only caters to the local palate but also showcases Presta's culinary prowess and attention to detail.
The restaurant's fitout, which remains largely unchanged from its previous incarnation as Mede, has been given a fresh coat of green paint, tying the space together. The result is a vibrant and inviting atmosphere that complements the food perfectly. On its first Saturday night service, Romeo was packed with locals, a testament to its appeal and Presta's ability to create a unique dining experience.
Presta's decision to open Romeo in Bulimba was deliberate. He sought a change from the city and wanted to explore the suburban vibe, and Bulimba provided the perfect compromise. The area is family-friendly, and Presta's previous venues in Brisbane have been well-received, further solidifying his reputation in the city's culinary scene. Romeo is open Tuesday to Thursday from 11am to 9pm, Friday and Saturday from 7am to 9.30pm, and is located at 161 Oxford Street, Bulimba.
In my opinion, Romeo is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique dining experience in Brisbane. Presta's attention to detail, creativity, and ability to balance tradition and innovation make it a standout in the city's culinary landscape. As a food enthusiast, I can't wait to see what Presta does next, and I'm sure Romeo will continue to be a hot spot for food lovers in Brisbane and beyond.
