As it’s common knowledge, Italy’s name is synonymous with gastronomic artistry, globally admired for the transcendent simplicity of its cuisine that has inspired us at Bardo to curate an epicurean experience steeped in the country’s multifaceted culinary legacy. As such, our extensive menu serves as a homage to Italy’s diversified regional gastronomy, a culinary map guiding through the vibrant gastronomic treasures dispersed across the nation.
Spanning from the North to the South, our menu offers a unique window to relish the quintessentially authentic Italian palates from an array of regions. Allowing the distinctive regional aromas and flavours to shine through.
And so, it all begins with these flavourful introductions of Bardo Appetisers:
The Prosciutto e Bufala: The Prosciutto e Bufala Pinsa at Bardo pays homage to the historical origins of pinsa, a style of hand-pressed pizza dough that has been a hallmark of Roman artisan baking for over 100 years. By showcasing thin-sliced “Tanara” Parma ham and buffalo mozzarella atop this traditional dough, we celebrate both the culinary innovation and time-honoured traditions that define Italian cuisine. Bardo’s commitment to authenticity means that this dish isn’t just a must-try delicacy, but also a solution for those seeking to connect with the rich heritage of Italian food. Our careful crafting of this dish respects its historical roots while offering a modern and unforgettable taste experience, making it a perfect reflection of Bardo’s culinary philosophy.
Vitello tonnato Originating from Piedmont, a region known for its blend of French and Italian cuisines, Vitello tonnato is an aristocratic creation. It beautifully marries veal slices with a creamy tuna sauce. This 19th-century dish is an ingenious gastronomic synthesis of land and sea, reflecting Piedmont’s geographical diversity. The delicate texture of veal, combined with the robust flavour of tuna, offers a sublime taste experience.
Polenta morbida: A Bardo signature dish, Polenta morbida is rich with earthy truffled mushrooms, capturing the very essence of Northern Italian cuisine. This dish is more than a meal; it’s a reflection of the region’s profound agricultural heritage. The comforting warmth of polenta, paired with the aromatic allure of truffles, provides a taste experience that is distinctly and uniquely Northern Italy. It’s a culinary embrace that transports you straight to the leafy landscapes and rich traditions of the North, all served on a plate at Bardo.
Pastas at Bardo
Tagliatelle all’astice: Tagliatelle all’astice is a culinary tribute to Italy’s rich coastal and regional traditions. At its core is tagliatelle, a long, ribbon-like pasta, traditionally hailing from the Emilia-Romagna and Marche regions. Meticulously paired with luscious lobster and the aromatic infusion of acqua pazza, Datterino tomatoes, a hint of chilli, and the invigorating zest of Amalfi lemon, this dish embodies the harmonious blend of land and sea. The flat texture of the tagliatelle, renowned for its ability to absorb flavours, perfectly cradles the rich lobster sauce, ensuring each bite is a journey to Italy’s coastline and its heartland. A beloved classic at Bardo, the Tagliatelle all’astice stands as a testament to our dedication to presenting diners with an authentic and unforgettable Italian dining experience.
Paccheri alla Sorrentina: This sun-kissed ode to Campania features the Daterinno tomato, which became integral to Italian cuisine in the 16th century. Its combination with pasta and stracciatella cheese reflects the warmth and joy of the Campanian sun, embodying the spirit of the region particularly that of the coastal town of Sorrento. The Bardo variation includes a splash of vanilla in the sauce.
Agnolotti del plin: From the Piedmont region comes Agnolotti del plin, a dish that not only celebrates family and tradition but also symbolises Italian innovation in the culinary arts. These savoury pasta pockets, brimming with succulent beef, showcase a talent for transforming humble leftovers into a gourmet treasure. Deeply rooted in community and familial togetherness, the history of this dish is one of shared joy and heritage, where grandmothers would gather to prepare this meal for special occasions. At Bardo, this pasta doesn’t just represent our emphasis on family values; it’s a personal favourite of our owner, Luca Maggiora. It’s more than a meal; it’s a connection to the past, an embodiment of culture, and a delicious link to what makes Bardo truly special.
Our main courses:
Branzino: Branzino, or roasted sea bass, is a staple in Italian cuisine, reflecting the country’s rich maritime tradition. This dish, featured at Bardo, pairs the succulent sea bass with cannellini beans, artichoke, taggiasca olives, and clams, creating a harmonious blend of flavours. The Branzino’s popularity in Italy dates back to ancient times, and its continued relevance is a testament to the timeless appeal of Italian culinary artistry. At Bardo, we honour this history by offering a contemporary take on this classic, providing our diners with an authentic and delectable taste of Italy’s coastal heritage.
Tagliata di manzo: A Tuscan treasure, this dish exhibits prime beef paired with potatoes & figs. It’s a simple but delicious dish that’s loved throughout Italy. This dish is a harmonious juxtaposition of tradition and modernity, rooted in Tuscan farming traditions. Its preparation technique, involving slicing the beef after grilling, ensures a juicy and flavourful experience that pays homage to Tuscany’s rich agricultural heritage.
Cotoletta alla Milanese: A Milanese cultural icon, the crispy breaded veal cutlet known as Cotoletta alla Milanese celebrates centuries of tradition. While various variations exist across Italy, Milan’s version is the most famous. Its origin, blending culinary cultures, resonates deeply with Milan’s identity. Dating back to the 12th century, this dish symbolises elegance and timeless appeal. At Bardo, we serve it with care, offering a taste that pays homage to both Milanese heritage and the essence of Italian gastronomy.
Parmigiana di melanzana: A vegetarian marvel, Parmigiana di melanzana finds itself at the centre of one of the most heated gastronomic disputes in Italy. The origins of this extraordinary dish spark one of the most passionate and elusive debates in culinary history. Claimed by Sicily, Naples, and Parma, each region lays its own unique claim to this culinary wonder. What’s the truth behind this delectable casserole of layered eggplant, cheese, and tomato? This multifaceted heritage reflects the rich complexity that permeates Italian cuisine. Despite the ongoing debate, one fact remains unquestioned: It’s a delicious dish loved by many across Italy, offering unforgettable flavours that resonate with the essence of Italian culinary tradition
Our most iconic desserts
Tiramisù: Veneto’s globally-cherished creation, Tiramisù, is more than a dessert. It’s a symphony of coffee-infused biscuits and sumptuous mascarpone cheese. Dating back to the 1960s, it’s a relatively young dish but has quickly become a symbol of Italian creativity, expressing Veneto’s passion for innovation and artistic flair.
Ferrero rocher: A contemporary confection inspired by one of Italy’s most iconic chocolate brands, this dessert symbolises Italy’s ongoing innovation in the culinary world. It’s a decadent celebration of chocolate, encapsulating the quality and artistry for which Italian chocolatiers are renowned.
So, whether you are looking for a haven that feels like home or wish to wholly submerge yourself in an authentic Italian ambience, we at Bardo have orchestrated the environment for an unparalleled culinary excursion.
In essence, our menu at Bardo isn’t just a list of dishes—it’s a culinary curriculum. As you savour each bite, we aim for you to also absorb the rich history and culture of Italian cuisine. We believe that an educated palate enhances enjoyment, so with every dish, we offer insights into its origins and significance. The next time you set foot in Italy, or even step back into Bardo, you’ll not just be dining; you’ll be reconnecting with a deeper understanding!