Fabio's Firenze Feast

Burrata Crostini with Sun Dried Tomato

When visiting LA it's on most people's wish list to see a Hollywood star! On my wish list, I was hoping to see a star of the culinary world - Fabio Viviani - one of my Top Chef favourites. My friend and I headed to Moorpark, in the suburbs of LA, to Fabio's restaurant Cafe Firenze. We were ushered to our table, the only table with full kitchen view - right across from the pass, and there was Fabio looking just like he did in the Top Chef kitchen! We could see the chefs running around, bringing dishes for Fabio to taste, and even witnessed a passionate Italian outburst!

We opted for the Chefs Table 5 course feast designed by Fabio himself especially for my pregnant buddy.

 

Troife con Anatra e Finocchino

Burrata Crostini - Burrata, Arugola, homemade Sun-dried Tomato, Basil, 25 years Balsamic Vinegar, Shaved Parmesan

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Trofie con Anatra e Finocchino - Homemade Troife Pasta, Duck Sausage, Caramelized Fennel, Parmesan

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Gnocchi alla Rustica - Homemade Gnocchi with Truffled 4 cheese and Sausage

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Gnocchi alla Rustica

Costole Brasate - Braised Short Ribs, Parmesan Polenta, Roasted Mushrooms

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Italian Homemade Cannoli - Ricotta, Chocolate Chips, Pistachio Encrusted, and Dusted with Sugar

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Limoncello Ricotta Cheesecake - Creamy Ricotta Cheese and Limoncello with a light Graham Cracker Crust

Costole Brasate

Turns out, a subject Fabio is very passionate about is what pregnant women eat and how that effects the palate and diet preferences and allergies of the new born, and much to our excitement he pulled up a chair and chatted with us between courses!

The food was fabulous - great portion size, and scrumptious flavours. Each bite had distinct fresh Italian flavours.With the small plates that kept coming, we felt like Tom, Gail and Padma tasting the Top Chef dishes! 

Limoncello Ricotta Cheesecake

Cannoli

 

Me and Fabio