Despite the growing competition in the neighbourhood, the popular Da Sette Soldi succeeds by holding fast to its Italian roots.
Nowadays, the term ‘icon’ is too readily applied, but this relaxed suburban ristorante is a place where it can be bestowed confidently – and the reason why it’s always full. Forget fancy, forget tizz, and rejoice in a chef who isn’t trying to reinvent the wheel. It’s a successful formula that starts with the perfect pronunciation of the all-Italian menu, a judicious combination of friendly service that continues with big flavours of Italian classics from a simple produce-driven bill of fare.
Expect plenty of flavour, indulgence and a style that should be recorded into a how-to textbook. The kitchen sends out dishes that range from appetisers to pasta and risotto to seafood to meat dishes and traditional pizzas, and also knows when to tweak the classics. Classics like cannelloni ($26.50), risotto ($28.50), spaghetti marinara ($28.90), lasagne ($26.50), tortellini ($28.50) and fettuccine ($28.50). Desserts provides a sensational finish.
The menu is complemented with a selection of beers and a sharp but inexpensive Italian wine list featuring some interesting drops by the glass.
And the verdict? Da Setta Soldi has morphed from a very good suburban eatery specialising in pizza to something much more rewarding. The real enjoyment of eating here is all about how they manage to effortless engage all the senses.
RATING
Menu: 8.5 | Cuisine: 8.5 | Wine list: 7
Service: 7.5 | Décor: 7.5 | Value for Money: 8.5
153 Manukau Rd, Epsom. Telephone: 09 630-2856.
Dinner Tuesday to Sunday; licensed.
