Hardware Club
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Nine-years after departing the fair town of Verona for Melbourne, childhood friends head chef Nicola Dusi (Baby, DOC) and Andrea Ceriani (also a co-owner of +39 Pizzeria) have opened their first restaurant together, The Hardware Club.
Located on the first floor of Hardware House at 43 Hardware Ln, the name pays homage to the site’s history as a social club for hardware trade members in the 1920s. The eatery aims to serving Italian classics with a contemporary take. We loved tasting our way through the menu.
To start the Cacio e pepe toastie “carozza” of crumbed mozzarella and braised leek was simply comfort food at its best. A carb and cheese lover’s dream, this was a brilliant start. To follow, creamy whipped Cod Mantecato was a beautifully luscious spread for crusty bread. More delicious things to go on bread include roasted bone marrow topped with fresh salsa verde.
Fried sardines “in saor” graced our presence next – a perfect interlude between the rich courses, this dish boasted a zesty tartness and was served with pickled onions, golden sultanas and pinenuts.
For something heavier, do not go past the burrata. This cheese sensation demonstrated that unforgettable dishes can sometimes be very simple. In this instance, a ball of unadulterated burrata simply paired with zucchini alla scapece mint, vinegar, saffron and crumbs. When the outer solid mozzarella shell was cut, we loved how the creamy interior of soft, stringy curd and fresh cream revealed itself. The sumptuously rich yet sensibly balanced flavours were sensational.
A visit to Hardware Club would of course be in complete without pasta. If you’re craving a nice plate of pasta, the Octopus “Luciana” with paccheri pasta, smoked mozzarella and salty bits will do the trick.
Whatever you do, do not leave without trying their beautiful desserts. The classic tiramisu is simply beautiful and made traditionally using Montenegro. Or if you feel like something rich and indulgent, the bread and butter pudding made with panettone will have you singing.
Location: Level 1, 43 Hardware Lane, Melbourne
Phone: 03 9670 1110
