Jamie’s Italian (York) – Review

Jamie’s Italian is a new addition to York which opened earlier in the year. My friends and I didn’t have the opportunity to dine here during our University years so it made perfect sense to try York’s newest chain restaurant. I’m always sceptical when it comes to chains as I find that independent restaurants have better food, with more thought and attention to detail in their dishes.

On receiving the menu, nothing stood out. There were some nice Italian dishes (don’t get me wrong) but nothing enticing enough. After deliberating for awhile, our server arrived and described the specials. What really drew us in was the description she gave of the specials and her passion for the food served. Let’s just say, out of six, four ordered the same main course (including myself).

I don’t remember the name of the dish, however, what I had in front of me was a carnivore’s delight; pheasant, rabbit, lamb and beef served with a tomato based salsa. The flavours of the meat worked well with the salsa and there was enough on the plate to keep your taste buds satisfied. The meat was moist and succulent and surprisingly didn’t overpower the dish. Instead the different textured meats were a delight to eat. A winning dish that surprised the sceptic in me and so we stayed for dessert.

CHOCOLATE & VIN SANTO POT

I ordered the ‘Chocolate & Vin Santo pot’ which was served with vanilla ice cream and biscotti. The chocolate was a creamy texture that hit all the right spots however it was a little too heavy; a pleasant but forgettable dessert.

I’m not usually one for re-visiting restaurants but feel I cheated by not ordering from the official menu. Jamie’s is a restaurant which was filled with surprises and if the menu can live up to the specials it’s where I’ll be visiting time and time again.

- Jamie’s Italian