LOCATIONNear the intersection of Rundle and Pulteney Streets.
PROFILED BY DE GROOTS MEDIADo not come here if in search of an intimate spot. Save that for another time because this place is perfect for gathering friends, family or workmates to eat big and talk loud. Two Italians couples own Cafe Brunelli: the ever-smiling Teresa and her husband Joe Bruno, and the lovely Domie and her affable husband Tony. You may recognise Teresa from Fellini Cafe in North Adelaide. Her smile is as warm as the wood-oven that churned out award-winning pizzas there for 10 years. Now lucky diners in Cafe Brunelli can partake in this pizza perfection – and lots more. There is serious business brewing in their coffee club. Membership privileges receive unlimited $2 caffeine hits which are great for the neighbouring city working bees. Naturally, they are not complete without one of the glossy chocolates residing inside the cake cabinet. Should you be hungering for more, chef Danny Shuchelli will take care of that.
Shuchelli’s Argentinean heritage shows in an entree of panini roll filled with chorizo sausage and chimichurri sauce. (Brunelli’s beef, chicken and veggie burgers are also listed as “entrees” – this is certainly not because of their size, so pack an appetite.) The bistecca Argentina also gets a slash of chimichurri on its 500g of porterhouse steak. Dishes are otherwise a blend of Mediterranean influences. A beautiful-sounding risotto verdura lives up to its promise of greens with beans, baby spinach, peas and basil. “Dolcevita” certainly gives you a taste of the good life with king prawns, anchovies, capers and fresh chilli tossed through your choice of pasta. You will feel like you are dripping in gold when you summon the coveted “millionare” gourmet pizza. Morton Bay bugs, scallops, crab and caviar decadently grace its dough. Perhaps even a Cherry Ripe pizza for after? Mangia, mangia!
Roz Taylor