DETAILSIn the leafy suburb of Bardon, Avanti Cafe and Pasta Bar boasts that they have the “most extensive pasta menu that you have ever seen”, and I must admit they might just have me there. The menu features 35 a la carte pasta dishes that are prepared fresh to order, and not only do they serve a lot of pasta, they also offer a wide range of breads, dips, salads and mains totalling more than 100 menu items. Just as well given that the spacious restaurant can seat around 140 people in the tropical alfresco courtyard dining area, making for a great atmosphere when it fills up on weekends.
The restaurant has a pleasant, airy feel about it, with high ceilings, trendy red seating and views of MacGregor Terrace. It’s been turning out affordable Italian food since 1994, and while it may not be fine dining, it’s ideal for a quick feed and catch up with friends and has a long list of devoted locals. Highlights of the menu include the linguini frutti di mare (succulent seafood, fresh herbs, lemon juice and creamy garlic sauce) or the canelloni al basilico (cannelloni stuffed with ricotta, pine nuts, spinach and chicken mince in a fresh pesto sauce).
