A new addition to Didsbury’s social scene recently opened its doors with the Italian eatery perfectly reflecting the suburb’s cosmopolitan lifestyle.
And CIBO restaurant has the ability to provide Manchester socialites with delicious rustic Italian cuisine in sumptuous surroundings.
The key feature of this modern and refreshing menu is Cicchetti, small snacks or side dishes similar to Spanish tapas.
If you plump for this, or choose to have it as an appetiser over drinks, stuffed artichoke wrapped in lardo or crostini ricotta broad bean and mint comes highly recommended.
The former is packed full of flavour while the latter leaves a surprisingly tangy taste in the mouth.
There are six options for the tapas-style food, each costing £2 or five for £10, proving to be good value and an excellent way to get the dining experience underway.
The taste of Italy is evident on the main menu with some real gems reflecting the beauty and culture of Venice.
Vine tomato and burrata with basil and fresh oregano together with a serving of San Danielle ham with burrata cheese and Umbrian virgin oil proved excellent antipasti e insalata.
As with the vast majority of antipasti and insalata, they do exactly what is said on the tin – fresh, tasty and well-presented.
But a particular favourite has to be the meat course with Italian sausages on spinach a treat indeed, with pork and apple meatballs not too far behind.
The sausages certainly pack a spicy punch and are not for the faint-hearted while the meatballs are lean and succulent.
Mozzarella and wild mushroom pizzette also provides a tasty option and despite being a touch bland succeeds in not overbearing.
Lemon and lime mess and passion fruit pannacotta – both light with a citrus zip – epitomises the Italian love of dessert and will suitably round off any meal.
Ultimately, CIBO is a thoroughly enjoyable evening out with smart food on offer which won’t break the bank.
The owners have managed to marry elegance and style with a fresh and laid back atmosphere – it’s innovative, classy and well worth a visit.
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