How dough you do?

Smoked salmon and camembert sounds more like a fine apéritif than a pizza topping. But at the newly opened Piccante, expect to chance upon the unexpected. And here’s why.  The pizzeria and bar is headed by a Japanese chef — who has created a menu that is Italian at its core, but with flavour choices popular in Tokyo and Osaka. Although Chef Takedo Masanao is quick to clarify, “This is not fusion. Rather, these are Italian dishes further sophisticated in Japan where it is a highly competitive market.” That means, alongside a classic Mushroom Cream Risotto (on the menu) you’ll find a Spaghetti Alio Olio with a hint of Yuzukosyo (a paste made from chili peppers, yuzu peel and salt, which is then allowed to ferment). Or Broccoli and Prawn Ajillo right next to the Garlic Bread.

If you’re wondering why you haven’t crossed this pizzeria with its quaint interiors on the street already — it’s because this 56-seater is in the basement. Located just outside the Green Park lobby (formerly the pub Escape) in Vadapalani — the 1,200 sq foot space was opened about a month ago by Hirohama India Private Ltd. Not coincidentally, it is neighbours with Kuraku, a Japanese culinary outfit owned by the same group. But we set geography aside for the moment, eager to get to tasting.

We whet our appetites with the Smoked Salmon salad that has us go back for repeat servings. Unfortunately, the Brinjal Caponata Cheese and Mushroom Risotto are not as gripping, a few spoons in. The pizzas however, as promised are the most popular act of the night. “You must try the Teriyaki Chicken Pizza which is a signature in Japan,” recommends chef Takedo. He wasn’t kidding, we get hooked pretty quick. Apart from the aforementioned salmon and camembert combo that we can’t stop raving about as we chew, there’s also a pizza to opt for where you can mark up (or down) your range of spice that runs across a spectrum of mild to somebody-hose-me-down!  The latter works just fine for us as there’s  everything from Coke to  Chardonnay to choose from. An interesting fact to note, is that the staff at Piccante make it a point to age their dough 24 hours prior, which means a lighter bite every time.

Open for dinner only. At Green Park Hotel, Vadapalani. Average cost of meal for two is Rs 1,000. Details: 33011710