… clearly one of the restaurants that has stood the test of time. Not only has it been around forever but it is constantly full and there is little chance of getting a table at the last minute.

The cuisine is mostly Italian with a slight twist – entrees, pastas, meat based mains, pizzas etc – all reasonably priced for the portions and area.

Our visit started on the wrong foot as we were going to be seated in a small space next to a pretty large group. The restaurant was full aside from a table outside, which in Winter can be pretty cold. Luckily for us the waiter took us outside, re-set the table, put down the side plastic cover (to keep out the rain) and brought out a heater to make us comfortable.

He was simply lovely – actually all the staff were and stopped to have a quick chat when pouring our wine or bringing out our food. We had the quietest spot in the restaurant and it ended up being a great night!

Onto the food – I went for the pasta special which was a baby goat ragu with papardelle and my partner ordered the beef cheeks served on a bed of mash and a puff pastry. Both dishes were great and well suited to the cold evening. There is something about goat… maybe because it is not as common as other meats, however I just can’t help ordering it when its on menus.

As full as we were, we couldn’t pass say no to dessert. We asked for the menu and before you know it the waiter brought out a massive stamp (the ink kind, not postage) and stamped the menu on our paper tablecloth. How’s that for originality – well I thought that was interesting.

The winner was Tiramisu… felt like the best option after a good plate of pasta. This wasn’t the deconstructed, fusion type Tiramisu but a stock standard, mascarpone, coffee, sponge type – yumm is all I can say.

A great dinner and one for my favourite list- I just wish I came here sooner.

Bare Essentials
http://www.thepurpleolive.com.au
07 3254 0097
Tuesday-Thursday 5:30pm till late
Friday-Sunday 12.00pm till late
79, James Street, New Farm, QLD 4005