Giant Arancini Balls: A Sicilian Delight in the Heart of London
Arancino of Sicily has recently opened its doors near Tottenham Court Road, and the buzz surrounding this new establishment is palpable. Locals and tourists alike are flocking to this hotspot to indulge in the authentic flavors of Sicilian street food. Intrigued by the mention of pistachio, I knew I had to experience it for myself.
Upon entering the small shop, I was greeted by a cozy atmosphere with a tiny counter, drinks fridge, and only three indoor seats. However, the spacious outdoor terrace more than made up for the limited indoor seating. I had the pleasure of meeting the owner, Alessia, who had traveled all the way from Catania to bring a taste of Sicily to the bustling streets of London. The arancini are freshly made, so be prepared to wait for your favorite flavor – but trust me, the wait is well worth it.
A Taste of Sicily
The menu at Arancino of Sicily boasts an array of flavors, including seasonal specials that cater to a variety of tastes. During my visit, I arrived later in the day, and many popular options had already sold out. However, I was able to sample both meat and veggie options that were still available. For those with a sweet tooth, it is recommended to arrive early as the pistachio, Nutella, and custard cream arancini tend to sell out quickly. My personal favorite was the Pistachio and Pancetta, with its rich and creamy rice complemented by generous chunks of pistachio and pancetta that melted in my mouth.
Each arancino is filled with cheesy goodness, making every bite a delight. The beef ragu arancino, a best-seller at the shop, is a flavor explosion with tender beef that practically melts in your mouth. Vegetarians can enjoy options such as the mushroom arancino, which resembles a rich risotto, or the mozzarella and tomato variation. I sampled the aubergine arancino, and the cheesy goodness combined with the savory eggplant made it a standout choice.
A Gastronomic Adventure
At £6.90 per arancino, the price may be higher than what you would find in Sicily, but considering the generous size of these arancini – literally the size of your face – one is sufficient for a satisfying meal. This makes it an ideal choice for a quick and flavorful lunch in the heart of Central London. In addition to their delectable arancini, the shop also offers Italian roasted coffee and exclusive drinks. During my visit, I had the opportunity to sample their upcoming winter special: a pistachio and almond milk blend that paired perfectly with the arancini, offering a harmonious balance of flavors without being overly sweet.
Arancino of Sicily is rapidly gaining popularity, and they have exciting plans for the future. They are expanding their seating options downstairs and will soon be offering authentic Italian products for sale. If you are yearning for a taste of Sicily without the need for a plane ticket, this is the perfect destination. However, be forewarned: after experiencing the delectable arancini at this establishment, you may find yourself tempted to book a trip to Sicily to further indulge in its culinary delights.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, Arancino of Sicily offers a unique and authentic Sicilian experience in the heart of London. From the rich and flavorful arancini to the welcoming atmosphere, this shop is a must-visit for food enthusiasts looking to explore the diverse flavors of Sicilian cuisine. With its expanding menu and focus on quality ingredients, Arancino of Sicily is poised to become a staple in London’s culinary scene. Make sure to visit before it becomes even more popular, and prepare to embark on a gastronomic journey that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more.