Il Biscione

img_6649-v2webIl Biscione, Concord’s latest addition, is a rustic, edgy restaurant with charm and a fresh wholesome Italian menu to rival any of the upper end city restaurants like Beppi’s or Otto’s (and is much better value!).

Chef Alessandro Mandelli has trained with the best traditional Italian chefs in Italy after years of working in fine dining has opened a modern eatery with his wife and business partner Christina. Together the duo have created a recipe for success, with Christina whizzing about the restaurant pleasing patrons with her knowledge of wine pairing and the history Italian gastronomy and a good old fashioned smile.

We took a quick five with Alessandro who shared his culinary secrets:

What is your signature dish?
I have two. For an entrée, roasted marrow with burnt brioche, pickled carrots and raddish. For a main, it is the classic Milanese risotto with saffron.

Tell us about your training?
Having worked in Italy, I was also trained in the UK, and one of my career highlights was working with a team in Edinburough that cooked for politicians and diplomats. The quality of food as a private chef at this level, is extremely high and the pace and pressure is also exhilarating. I was lucky enough to cook for the Prime Minister of the day at his invitation and I have learnt a lot from this experience. I was lucky enough to do my apprenticeship with one of the father’s of Italian cuisine Mammali chef and Maxim chef.

What inspires your cooking and how has this shaped the menu at Il Biscione?
The style of cooking is traditional with a modern twist. Fresh ingredients are very important. I source the best authentic ingredients from local and import suppliers. I look for the best aged balsamic vinegar and olive oils imported from Italy. I only use quality ingredients and search rigorously for things like the best mozzarella or parma ham. I like modern ways of plating traditional dishes, for example a traditional dish like Ossabuco can be served as a terrine with crispy polenta.

What is the best thing about the restaurant?
There is a passion for food and service. Both Christina and I are lucky to have a good team of hand picked individuals who care about service, hospitality and food. The atmosphere is friendly and bubbly and we hope that everyone leaves here full and pleased.

Il Biscione is open:
Tues to Thursday 11.30 to 3pm, 5pm to 9pm
Friday and Saturday 11.30 to 10pm
Sunday 11.30 to 9pm
Breakfast Saturday and Sunday

51 Majors Bay Road Concord
www.ilbiscione.com.au