REVIEWED BY DE GROOTS MEDIAMediterranean food certainly seems at home in the summery seaside town of Glenelg, with its sandy shores, benevolent weather and yacht-heavy marina. Esca is actually situated on Marine Pier so diners can choose between views of the yachts to the east, and the protected view of Gulf St Vincent to the West. Esca is accessorised with an open deck, large canvas umbrellas and a good measure of sun – in fact you could be on the coast of Greece or Italy but for the soaring seagulls. Order the hot bread plate to start, brimming with accompaniments like chilli, olives, salted butter and olive oil and pair it with a South Australian treasure from the fair sized wine list.
Esca is a restaurant brimming with self confidence, the wine glasses and dishes are emblazoned with the restaurant’s name and the service is swift and knowledgeable. With a beautiful fit-out of cream walls and wooden chairs the feel is of a relaxed beach house. The menu does not overextend itself and sticks to Mediterranean dishes enhanced by local seafood: try the linguini with Morton bay bugs, chilli, garlic and olive oil or the risotto with prawns, calamari, mussels, cockles and crab meat. After your meal go for a wander down the boardwalk and take in the salty sweet breeze.