Basilico - Albert Park

Where do the local families of Albert Park flock to on a Friday night? It would have to be Basilico. Filled to the brim with children of all ages, the place screams family friendly the minute you walk through the door.  Serving up inexpensive Italian cuisine, from its extensive array of wood fired pizzas, to its generous choice of pastas and meat dishes, the menu covers most of your Aussie-Italian culprits. 

The penne matriciana (with bacon, caramelised onion, chili and white wine) was surprisingly incredibly delicious. The pasta itself was cooked al dente and the sauce was well spiced and rich with flavour. 

 

The Zia Diana pizza (with Napoli, cheese, zucchini, eggplant, gourmet peppers, artichokes, garlic, oregano, olives, goat's cheese and pesto) however, was not so successful.  Whilst the base was thin and crispy, the toppings were bland, with the pesto and goat's cheese adding little flavour.

The staff were also a mixed bag. One was friendly and attentive, the other, well, was quite the opposite.  However, with its one brilliant staff member who saved the show, its family friendly vibe and delicious flavoursome pasta, Basilico still managed to make my recommendation list for young families wanting a tasty feed in Albert Park. 

Service: 3.5/5

Food: 3/5
Venue: 3/5
Total: 9.5/15
Verdict: like - if you're a local young family, get around to trying it at some point