LOCATIONIn the historic Clayfield railway station house, behind Eagle Junction train tracks.
PROFILED BY DE GROOTS MEDIAThis vibrant, old-school trattoria dishes up the genuine, full-bodied Italian dishes that true foodies search endlessly for. Family owned and run by Roman chef John Battino and his charming Sicilian wife Denise, Campo dei Fiori’s warm, authentic atmosphere is intensely addictive. Embark on a Mediterranean feast with antipasto alla fondana – a selection of European sliced meats, olives, fresh cheeses and marinated, roasted vegetables. The bruschetta is a must, drizzled in olive oil and topped with fresh Roma tomatoes accompanied perfectly with a little vino. Then indulge your spoilt senses with spicy fettuccini amatriciana, brick-oven baked lasagne or endlessly deep bowls of spaghetti aglio e olio with fresh tiger prawns.
The unique character and homely comfort of the century-old timber station house will warm the heart as much as Battino’s homemade creamy risotto warms the diner’s belly! For a true taste of the Italian spirit, the smoky brick-oven pizza – capricciosa or traditional margarita, served in classic terracotta dishes – will have you sharing old stories of your younger days. Don’t hold back now, complement a smooth, dark, roasted espresso with a delectably fluffy tiramisu, care of a secret Italian family recipe. One tantalising mouthful of Campo dei Fiori’s creations and you’ll be planning your next food escape back to this little Italy in Clayfield.
Katharine Chapman