Writer Alissa Stroud finds herself transported to Roma for the evening with a five-course truffle-inspired feast at Roast in London Bridge
“Close your eyes and you’ll be transported to Roma.“
Words that were music to my ears after stepping out from the cold January night and into the warm and inviting Roast in Borough Market.
I was lucky enough to dine at Roast a number of years ago to enjoy their namesake – a Sunday lunch – and it was seriously good. Despite the years that have passed, the juicy pork belly with crispy crackling lives rent free in my mind and since then has been a benchmark for what a good roast should be.
On this occasion, however, I was here to sample something a little different. The classic British menu at Roast had been reimagined for an exclusive event with an Italian twist, in partnership with luxury Italian truffle specialist, La Rustichella, and winemaker, Omina Romana.
Stepping into the beautiful high ceilinged dining room, I was greeted with a warming whisky cocktail topped with a gold dusted cherry – a taste of the decadence that was to follow.
After a friendly welcome from the Brugnoli family – who are responsible for the creation of La Rustichella and had flown from Rome to host the evening – we sat at our seats, eager for the fusion feast to begin.
A selection of warm homemade breads was presented with a sphere of whipped truffle butter alongside truffle oil with black truffle balsamic vinegar. They’d been right in saying we’d be transported to Roma – as soon as the butter and oil were set on the table the unmistakeable and irresistible scent of truffle reached my nose and I knew I was in for a treat. It was a flavour sensation with that satisfying umami richness that is truly distinct to truffle.
Pan seared scallop with truffle butter sauce, samphire and avruga caviar was up first. The subtle truffle butter sauce complemented the delicate scallop, whilst the freshly shaved winter truffle on top added a final flourish. The chilled glass of Hermes Diactoros II was a delicious accompaniment – named for the Greek messenger god of Olympus, this white wine was fresh, crisp and a gorgeous golden colour. It was definitely worth breaking Dry January for!
Next, Roast’s signature half scotch egg was served on a bed of wilted chard with truffle and a piccalilli foam, which added a great zingy-ness to the dish. This was paired with Omina Romana’s 2021 Chardonnay – a bright and balanced wine with a refreshing mineral taste.
For the main event, we were presented with Roast’s signature beef wellington which was truly a sight to behold – perfectly pink fillet was coated in truffled mushroom paté with a crispy golden puff pastry case. The meat was butter-soft whilst the mushroom paté was elevated with the addition of the truffle. On the side – a creamy truffle-laced mash which I could have eaten by the bucketload.
Alongside the main, we enjoyed a full-bodied red – Omina Wines’ Cesanese, which was fruity yet balanced and was beautiful alongside the tender beef fillet.
I was thrilled to be presented with my favourite British dessert for the final course, an apple crumble – the fruit delicately spiced and the crumble topping nice and crisp. Here, the truffle came within the custard, a surprisingly delicious interpretation that truly enhanced the pudding.
Whether visiting for a Sunday lunch, tucking into the tasty à la carte menu or visiting for one of its truly unique events, Roast in Borough Market is a must visit.
And if you’re keen to get your hands on the gorgeous truffle products from La Rustichella, keep your eyes peeled in specialist Italian delis and you might just spot them!
Make it happen
How: To book your table at Roast and keep up to date with their latest events, visit roast-restaurant.com
Where: The Floral Hall, Stoney St, London SE1 1TL
To find out more about La Rustichella, visit their Instagram at instagram.com/larustichellatruffles.
To find out more about Omina Romana, visit ominaromana.com
Words by Alissa Stroud, writer
