Tartufo

LOCATION
In the Emperium complex off Ann Street in Fortitude Valley.

PROFILED BY DE GROOTS MEDIA
Award-winning chef Tony Percuoco, creator of the much-loved Ristorante Fellini on the Gold Coast, has followed his heart and arrived in Brisbane. Having fallen in love with the city, he decided that the time was right to move in. The result is Tartufo, meaning 'truffle', a traditional-style Italian restaurant that simply exudes quality. Tony himself is a fourth-generation restaurateur from Italy, with a lifetime’s cooking experience and innumerable personal awards to his name. Unsurprisingly, he displays a passion for dining that is truly Italian. He describes the restaurant as 'halfway between Napoli and Milano'; the flamboyant zeal for life of Naples meeting the class and sophistication of a Milanese ristorante. The feel of modern Italian style shows through red leather seats and dark wood interiors that give a sense of European finesse. Mirrors glitter down from amid deep wooden surroundings that gives a shady cool to the hottest of days.

The cuisine of Tartufo is not just Italian, but 'classic' Italian meaning the authenticity of flavours speak for themselves. Tony seeks to constantly refine his masterpieces, yet also creates dishes from eighteenth century recipes, presented in their true traditional forms. The emphasis is on simplicity and fresh ingredients. The menu changes quarterly and according to what the season’s best produce dictates, save for a few favourite dishes which loyal patrons, having followed Tony from the Gold Coast, simply refuse to go without.

This restaurant is an inspired meeting of cultures. The beauty of south-east Queensland makes an ideal complement for the romance, passion and a love of food straight from the shores of Italy. For sun-kissed Italian cuisine in Brisbane made with flair, experience and dedication, Tartufo now seems the obvious choice.

Aran Ward Sell