Epic Rustic Italian at Officina Gastronomica Italiana in Prahran
Officina Gastronomica Italiana (OGI) @ogimelbourne has already become an institution in Prahran for those seeking the best of rustic Italian. This is an oasis of authenticity and conviviality central, driven by Claudio Casoni and his crack team, bringing the nuance, along with the comfort of a warm hug from your Nonna.
Work you way through the menu with a wine list that is extensive and features natural wines from Italy.
As an ex high profile engineer in Italy, Claudio Casoni (from Emilia-Romagna region) u
The name “Officina” means a “workshop/garage”, and this is a place of freedom to express, artisanal experimentation and evolving. They have a resident artisan pasta maker and a pasta workshop on the property. Claudio is unapologetic about the long name and reminds me that Ferrari and Maserati started in a garage.
The Head Chef is from north west Italy and nails every dish. Decor is sexy with a wine wall, elongated bar with marble top, exposed brick, and the service is impeccable. OGI has several dining spaces including an attractive courtyard (comes alive in summer).
We enjoyed -
✨Gnocco fritto, capocollo, pecorino dolce (these starters are a highlight)
✨Sicilian anchovies, whipped butter on toasted italian ciabatta (simple and rustic)
✨Truffle croquette, pecorino toscano, pastured egg mayo (by now you are feeling the rustic is real)
✨Nonna’s meatballs, san marzano sugo, parmigiano-reggiano 24 months (some of the best meatballs I’ve ever had)
✨Rigatoni, slow-braised wagyu beef ragù, Sardinian pecorino (showstopper dish with depth in the ragu)
✨Gippsland grass fed beef tagliata, marsala jus, salsa verde
✨Thin-cut fries, rosemary. housemade mayo
✨Tiramisù classico with italian mascarpone, marsala, our signature espresso (generous, great balance using quality ingredients)
✨Limoncello and liqueur (as you do)
✨2021 Mirco Mariotti Pet Nat (fun natural wine)
✨2021 St Michael Eppan Alto Adige Pinot Nero (from north of Italy, fun to compare to Victorian Pinot)
Feeling that this is one of the best rustic Italian restaurants in Melbourne. OGI is OMG.🙌