Organised by Annie Straiton and Siew Clough. A great attendance.
As is the custom, Ladies brought Gift Cards that would be delivered to the local Salvation Army Branch from which they would be distributed to children to brighten their Christmas.
WINES
Aperitif was Limoncello Spritz
White: 2021 Tombacco Pecorino from Ambruzzio
CANAPES
Mini Roasted Capsicum Tart
Generally very acceptable. “A good mix of ingredients, Very tasty. A good size to pop in the mouth. (They came and went so quickly, there are no photos!)
Ora King Salmon Crudo “Salamoreci” Sauce. Panzanella & Garlic Shots
Ratings varied from “Good” to “Excellent”. Fresh & tasty, well presented with an unusual touch of a spicy mayo dressing.
Burrata- Smoked Burrata with Roasted Cashew Cream, Confit Datterini & Basil Dukka Vinaigrette & Parma Ham.
Ratings mostly “Excellent.” Loved the smokey flavours.
Aranchini – Crispy Saffron Rice Aranchini with Pecorino Cheese in Tomato Sauce
Ratings varied from ‘Good’ to “Excellent” This was served hot, full of flavour, crisp and delicious.
WINES
Red: Cembra Pino Nero from Trentino Italy
MAIN COURSE (3 CHOICES)
Zuppa di Pesce – Lino’s Signature Spicy Sicilian Seafood Stew in Terracotta Pot
As this was the restaurant ‘signature dish’ most people chose it.
Ratings mostly ‘Poor’ to ‘Average’. Soup was too watery. Needed more spice. Seafood judged by most to be right temperature and perfectly cooked. Soup was served with crusty bread.
Tonnarelli – Squid Ink Pasta with Spanner Crab, Spicy Pork Nduja & Shellfish
This was the least selected dish.
Rated mostly as ‘good’ to ‘ excellent’. “Beautifully presented in the shell, good quantity of crab – most said it was light on the ‘spicey’ “
Roasted Sicilian Porchetta, with Sides of Baked Cauliflower with Smoked Eggplant & Tahini Cream & Salad.
This was the second most selected Dish.
Ratings mostly ‘Good’ some ‘Poor’. Best described as a “palatable combination”
DESSERT
Petite Four including Coffee & Tea.
In general, the ladies judged the restaurant and staff to be ‘excellent’
Some of the ladies adjourned to the local pub for ‘a festive cleansing ale’
Sydney Ladies Wine & Food Society 