If you are a fan of Italian cuisine and are looking for a truly ‘artisanal‘ experience, head to Bene at Sheraton Grand in Brigade Gateway. High on flavours and with a focus on fresh produce sourced locally, the menu has been curated by the very talented Chef Roberto Apa. With a passion for cooking since the tender age of 13, Italy born Roberto Apa brings to the table (well, quite literally!) a vast culinary experience, having worked all over the world before moving to Bangalore. Young and enthusiastic, Apa has created a menu that is refreshingly different, authentic and needless to say, delectable!
Bene, Sheraton Grand
Done up in earthy hues of brown and gray with hints of gold and teal, the setting is chic, elegant and contemporary. Brick walled shelves, pots, pans, freshly grown sprouts, a wine barrel and black boards with handwritten trivia add to the rustic yet cheerful vibes.
With a private dining area and Al fresco seating, Bene provides the perfect ambience whether for a cozy two some dinner or a family lunch or a night out with friends.
The fare is quite extensive with a wide range covering not only vegetarian and non-vegetarian but also gluten free options.
The freshly baked assortment of breads was a perfect way to start off the meal which was followed by salad and ‘Parmigiana di melanzane‘ which is essentially eggplant slices crisply fried and layered with air whipped mozarella along with tomato and basil sauce. This one was a clear winner for me with its distinct texture and aromatic flavours.
Vegetarian lovers must try the Minestrone soup that forms for a wholesome and healthy option. The pairing of fresh vegetables with legumes was an ideal combination that was served with country toasted bread.
The pasta caprese which is handmade and eggless and served with tomato confit and crispy fried leeks is a unique creation that is again a must try.
Pizza lovers are in for a treat considering that the menu has a wide choice, ranging from the evergreen Margherita, Quattro formaggi, Primavera, Four seasons and an exclusive Bene pizza. Apart from ratatouille and lasagna, Indian black chicken also finds its way in the main course, reflecting Chef Roberto’s creativity and innovative twist to a typical Italian menu.
As the popular saying goes, save the best for the last. Make sure you keep ‘room‘ for desserts for you do not want to miss the absolutely droolworthy Tiramisu 3.0 as well as the Zuppetta di argumi. The latter is an unbeatable combination of butter cooked apple with citrus semi-candied fruits served with red berry ice cream.
The panacotta and pastierra were a delightful treat too!
All in all, a meal at Bene is sure to change your preconceived notions of Italian cuisine. There was no overload of cheese nor of any sauce, the flavours were simple yet distinct. As Chef Roberto says, the essence of Italian cuisine is the method of cooking that aims to bring out the best of all the ingredients used. So, do try out a meal at Bene, you are sure to cherish the experience for a long time to come!
Contact details:
Sheraton Grand Bangalore Hotel at Brigade Gateway
26/1 Dr. Rajkumar Road Malleswaram, Rajaji Nagar, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560055
Phone: +91 80 4252 0291
