Vapiano - My only reason to pay for parking in the city.

Tell me this - when was the last time you walked into a Restaurant and saw the Chefs making the pasta you were just about to eat?

Or what about the last time you got to chat with your Chef while he whipped you up a quick Pappadelle Carbonara?

Or - just for fun now - when was the last time there were fresh LIVING herbs on your table, and a nursery within arms reach where they lovingly tend to them for your eating pleasure?

I'm going to go out on a limb here and guess that you might have had trouble answering those questions...?

Well if you want to change all that - I can tell you where you will get all of the above and more. Much, much more. You'll find it all at Vapiano on Albert Lane, Brisbane City.

Ioesco Sanctuary Cove - Authentic Italian at its best

"They serve this at the Pearly Gates you know" the waiter said as he picked up our empty plate of what was once Sticky Date Pudding. I was (moderately) embarrassed by how quickly we demolished this dish, but that shame faded pretty quickly when I saw another girl at our table actually pick up her plate and lick it. That is how you know a dessert is good. When a girl who prides herself on being impeccably presented, loses herself in the moment and licks clean the china.

But I've gotten ahead of myself... After drinks at Bubbles on Cove, we hightailed it to Ioesco before our stomachs started to digest themselves - for all the complaining that men do about how long it takes us to get ready - we were at the bar on time, and still waiting over half an hour later for the Metrosexuals to arrive... but gee they were handsome when they finally made it!

Service at Ioesco was swift and friendly, drink orders taken the instant bums were on seats and delivered soon after. Big tick there, and many more to follow throughout the night.

Ciccio's Pasta Bar

We lived in the Valley for a couple of years and funnily enough, never actually ate here until we moved out to the ‘burbs. They are one of hubby’s customers so we get really well looked after – but we’ve recommended a lot of friends here and they have all been suitably impressed. It’s a little Italian Restaurant opposite Ecco in the Industrial part of the city, just down from the Marriott.

They have paper tablecloths and crayons to amuse yourself while you wait for your food. (And funnily enough it's always the big kids who like the crayons more than the littlies!).

The pastas are fantastic – super generous serves with quality pastas and sauces – it’s a mix and match, you choose what pasta with which sauce. Garlic pizza breads are wonderfully crisp and topped with gooey cheese. Pizzas also share the love, super fresh toppings with crisp bases and no sogginess in sight! If you have room - try the meatballs as a starter (they are a tapas item) - they are mouthwateringly good... a secret blend of Pork, Veal and Beef mince with selected herbs and spices in a rich tomato sauce... just a shame you can't have them as a Main Course!

I'm a firm beleiver in staying true to the menu - if you go to an Italian Restaurant you should order something Italian, not a peice of steak or similar. But obviously not everyone agrees with me - and Ciccio's caters to this crowd as well having a selection of salads, Chickens and Steaks.

The prices are very pocket friendly - especially considering their city locations - they are a little bit of the way - but definately worth the walk.

Although not something they brag about - one of the co-owners used to be a brilliant barman - so if you ask, prepare to be dazzled by some amazing cocktails. They have a pretty special wine list and although I haven't been yet - I've heard their new wine bar that they've opened downstairs is pretty exciting... must be time for our next visit!

Verdict: Great night out for cheap but great quality Italian food. It’s casual enough that you're allowed to draw on the tables, but the food is good enough to take a date there! They also do takeaway for all the savvy locals and seem to be a favourite amongst late finishing Hospitality staff.

My Reccommendations: I love the Fettucine Carbonara or the Chargrilled Vegetable Pizza, the meatballs are to die for and you may not want to share...

Contact:
Ciccio's Pasta Bar
471 Adelaide Street
Brisbane
(opposite Ecco)