Chicago - Bravo! Cucina Italiana I

A 5-minutes' walk from where I stay, the Bravo! Cucina Italiana saw a steady stream of diners entering the pretty large restaurant. Curiosity got the better of me as I threw budgeting in the wind and decided to give myself a proper sit down meal after a few days of sitting down with a sandwich. No, I didn't go hard on myself but I didn't find what I like near where I stayed.

So, into Bravo! I went. Service was ok and if you ask me, the foccacia roll was absolutely gorgeous when it was put on the table. The roll was crusty and the insides were light as clouds. However, once it lost its heat, the crust became hard and the insides lost its fluff.

But what is amazing here is the tomato-rosemary-oregano-chilli infused olive oil dip. I suspect the tomatoes and herbs were slowly caramelised in olive oil till they become thick and lose almost all its water, seasoned liberally with salt and some sugar, then poured into a vat of olive oil to infuse. When the guests come, take a scoop of the special oil, throw on the rolls and the restaurant is on its way.

I think I am going to replicate this recipe at home and if it turns out well, I can give this as presents when I visit. Bring a loaf and bring a jar of the tomato olive oil dip. What's there not to love?