The Italian neighbourhood gem that's flying under the radar
'Bringing a dog.'
The little white box thoughtfully staring back at me on the online booking form confirmed this was my kind of establishment. While (sadly) a furry friend remains a twinkle in my eye (due to a fencing issue and a human companion less excited to acquire a canine one), I appreciate a dining venue that welcomes all. Throw in a little taste of Italy and my heart starts to sing.
Bodega, a neighbourhood trattoria on an unassuming street in Scarborough touts all the pizza and pasta classics. With menu items like burrata addiction, $27, and arancini truffle bomb, $22, ordering is a no-nonsense experience. Vegos and vegans are also well catered for, with a curious cauliflower steak, $29, appearing as a main.
Service is excellent — warm, attentive, friendly. Outdoor tables are full this early evening, as we sit inside by a window, surrounded by couples, a family and friend groups deep in conversation.
A mishmash of interiors that feature aqua-blue walls, disco balls, framed photos and a lone Azzurri jersey hanging from the ceiling suggest the team behind Bodega don't take themselves too seriously, though the quality of the food says otherwise.
A bite of the arancini's crisp outer layer reveals a creamy mushroom mix encasing a melted 'cheese heart' centre. Generous dollops of truffle mayo provide a flavour sensation that transcends your standard rice ball. Linguine ai gamberi at Bodega. Credit: Ross Swanborough / The West Australian
The burrata, big and beautiful as it should be, resting beside a bed of deliciously fresh cherry tomatoes and basil, urges us to sample the pan fritto, $14. The 48-hour pizza dough, cut and fried with parmigiano is the perfect side with a dollop of creamy cheese.
Bodega offers a nice selection of Italian wines by the glass as well as some locals, a reasonably priced cocktail list, beers and spirits. A 2022 Italian fiano proves a fine choice for the mains to come.
Penne alla vodka, $35, sees faultlessly al dente tubes in a creamy tomato-vodka sauce topped with crispy prosciutto and just enough spice. The linguine ai gamberi, $36, has a fair serving of succulent prawns and packs a punch with heat, with pangrattato adding a nice texture. Both pasta dishes are full of flavour and satisfy on all fronts.
With barely a skerrick of room for dessert, we succumb to the panna cotta with housemade coulis, $15. The fruity topping is sweet without being cloying, with the velvety firm custard a pleasurable end to the meal.
Opened by three friends with a desire to provide great food in a warm atmosphere, Bodega is certainly hitting the mark. While popular among locals, this gem of a diner has been flying under the radar. We'll likely be back soon, with kids or pup in tow.
An easygoing neighbourhood restaurant serving authentic Italian dishes made with care. Great wines and excellent food. Deserving of repeat visits.
Bodega
16e Calais Rd, Scarborough
Open: Monday to Sunday, 5pm - late
Bookings: Yes
Contact: bodegaperth.com.au
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