Though loosely translating to ‘Little Plates’, Piccoli Piatti serves anything but. Expect generous serves and delicious dishes at this relatively new Italian eatery, which opened at the beginning of 2020 – mere weeks before Adelaide’s first COVID lockdown.

Thanks to its invitingly modern yet relaxed new fit-out, an enticing menu, and a superb location, this cafe has not only emerged stronger in 2021, but has cemented its place amongst North Adelaide’s many Italian restaurants.

Waffles
 
Life is short – eat dessert first! A perfect option for those with a sweet tooth, this colourful creation is a pastel dream. Artistically decorated with strands of pale pink fairy floss, a forest of berries, shards of meringue that delicately dissolve on the tongue, and drizzled with an icing-like curd and deep red coulis, these waffles are the definition of a guilty pleasure.

 
 
Benedict
 
A prevalent option at many-a brunch place, Piatti’s take on the “Eggs Bennie” comprises two impeccably poached eggs, savoury, crunchy bacon, fresh baby spinach, and a decadent pool of perfected hollandaise. This is a solid offering of a well-known, well-loved classic – but with a slight twist. Unexpected, occasional pops of pangrattato provide a delightful textural addition, elevating the dish beyond just your usual Eggs Benedict.

Corn Fritters
 
Amazing, amazing, amazing. The perfect vegetarian dish (even for carnivores) – this is a wonderfully bright, well-balanced dish. Underneath the vibrant, generous garnish of leaves, lay crunchy yet moist fritters, alongside thick slices of contrastingly-coloured tomato and avocado, and a bed of chipotle salsa that conveys a hint of fiery spice.
PSA: these can be ordered with a side of bacon; the salinity from the protein perfectly complementing the sweet, freshness of the corn fritter.

Herbed Salmon Cakes

Served as salmon two ways, the panko-crusted fish cake – with flakes of coral toned salmon and flecks of chive – is accompanied by ribbons of smoked salmon, and goldenly runny poached eggs, floating in a serene pool of Hollandaise. This is a delightfully unique, highly enjoyable piece that has proved a popular choice among restaurant goers. A must try.

Equipped with both a beautiful interior and alfresco dining area, which makes the most of its prime O’Connell Street location, this is a lovely place to catchup with friends for a long, lazy feed.

Piccoli Piatti is open 7 days a week from 8am.

Words by Anh Ngo

WHERE: 21-23 O’Connell St, North Adelaide