Have you heard? Maurice Terzini, the accomplished Sydney restaurateur known for his flagship establishment Icebergs Dining Room and Bar, has lovingly expanded his culinary empire to the relatively untapped shoreline of Belongil Beach in Byron Bay.
Belongil Beach Italian Food is an inviting, family-friendly eatery that serves up an array of local seafood and sustainably sourced wines alongside classic Italian plates. The menu, crafted by Head Chef Danny Rossi and Icebergs Head Chef Alex Prichard, boasts a collection of dishes oozing bold and surprising flavours derived from the finest provincial ingredients.
Accompanying the warm and welcoming atmosphere, the restaurant's interior exudes a playful and breezy ambience with pastel pink tables and chairs. The dining room is open to the elements, supplying the perfect setting for guests to relish the ocean breeze and the gorgeous afternoon light filtering through the cocooning Australian natives.
Eager to work our way through the menu, we dove headfirst into the traditional Italian street food Pizza Fritta, and let me tell you, it was love at first bite. The deep-fried dough was crispy on the outside and pillowy on the inside, providing the perfect base for a sprinkle of Povera spice adding a punchy and savoury spin to the plate.
Following was an entree pairing sent straight from the Gods: San Daniele Prosciutto and Wasabi-infused Melon with Whipped Ricotta, Spring Greens, Mint and Lemon.
The San Daniele Prosciutto, a type of cured ham, came through with its delicate flavour and tender texture. The combination of the salty meat and sweet slash spicy melon was a match made in heaven; with the whipped ricotta adding a creamy texture that tied everything together. The mint and lemon dressing finished the light and cheesy dip off with a refreshing touch, making it a perfect palette prepper for the main course to follow.
Influenced by the sea air, and a few too many Aperols, we went for Spaghetti with Goolwa Pipis, Chilli, and Bottarga. The spaghetti was cooked al-dente, and the Goolwa Pipis, a type of small clam that is a delicacy in Italy, added a nice brininess to the dish. The chilli provided a swift kick of heat and the Bottarga, a type of dried and cured fish roe, brought out a unique umami flavour.
The real standout dish of the night was the Grilled Market Fish Fillet, Herb Butter, and Sorrel Salad. The fish was fresh, flaky and juicy, with a nice char on the outside. The herb butter added a rich and indulgent flavor that elevated the fish to new heights. The simple sorrel salad created a light and tangy contrast that cut through the richness of the butter, wrapping up the culinary exploration on a beautifully balanced note.
With a menu that showcases the area's local flavours and a relaxed atmosphere ideal for casual dining or special occasions, Belongil Beach Italian Food is a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts chasing a culinary exploration of the freshest kind.
