Photos by Andrew Finch
THERE’S nothing more local than a restaurant called Locale, nor pizzas more authentic than those made by Italian pizzaiolos, such as the crew cooking up a storm seven nights a week in the open-concept kitchen at Locale.
Deakin shops is a hoppin’ with this latest venture, which oozes passion and stands true to its motto “Made with Love”.
Locale isn’t pretentious. The décor is modern yet warm, and the atmosphere intoxicating.
You don’t have to make your own fun here – the staff do it for you, including if you’re propped at the bar enjoying a drink and antipasti, dining in for a full meal or hanging about for takeaway pizza, which run out the door at marathon pace. But don’t be fooled by the casual, friendly approach – this place is dead serious about top-quality, affordable food.
The calamari fritti is some of the best I have had in a long, long time ($17). No tough, chewy calamari here. It’s lightly coated with salt and pepper and is as tender as.
The arancini ($18) was also the best I’ve had in yonks. I had stopped ordering this dish in Canberra since so many places produce a gluey substance that they think is somehow pleasing.
Hand-made, wood-fired pizzas are front and centre at Locale, with around 15 varieties on offer (gluten-free quinoa base available, as are pastas, if that’s your preference). Pizzas range from $20 to $25.
The controlled chaos in the kitchen is mesmerising. Italians speaking Italian and hustling to flip dough (pure entertainment), add toppings, whip pizzas into the massive pizza oven, belt out the name of each as it’s ready, and place them on plates ready to be served quick sharp. These pizzas are definitely not made by some kitchen hand who thinks tossing a few ingredients randomly on to pre-made dough makes for an amazing bite to eat.
You will NOT go wrong with the “Locale” pizza, with fior di latte, salami, gorgonzola and mascarpone. It is to die for.
Salad anyone? My recommendation is the stunning Insalata di radicchio ($22). Bold, bitter, beautiful purple leaves with roasted walnuts, fresh pear and creamy, gorgonzola. A perfect combination.
I rarely order dessert (not because I don’t adore them but because I’m usually – dare I admit it? – too full). But Locale put forth another recommendation; the Tortino al cioccolato (all desserts $14), Perugia chocolate warm pudding with salted-peanut gelato and caramel sauce. It’s sinful and there’s plenty to share. I want more!
Locale is the brainchild of Omar Muscat and Michael Nagy, who are now the duo behind Double Shot (just next door in Deakin) and Urban Pantry (new changes soon).
Locale. Shop 5, Deakin shops. Open dinner only, 5pm until late. 6162 2888.
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