Buon Appetito in Essex is a celebrated Italian restaurant that offers a delightful culinary journey through authentic Italian flavors. The menu is carefully crafted to bring traditional recipes to life, using fresh ingredients and time-honored cooking techniques.
Whether you are craving classic pasta, wood-fired pizzas, or sumptuous desserts, Buon Appetito Essex’s menu promises an unforgettable dining experience. Each dish is prepared with passion and precision, offering a true taste of Italy right in the heart of Essex.
Appetizers
The menu begins with a selection of appetizers designed to awaken your palate. These starters showcase the rich, vibrant flavors typical of Italian cuisine, perfect for sharing or enjoying as a light beginning to your meal.
| Dish | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Bruschetta al Pomodoro | Toasted bread topped with fresh tomato, basil, garlic, and extra virgin olive oil. | £6.50 |
| Calamari Fritti | Crispy fried squid rings served with a zesty lemon aioli dip. | £7.95 |
| Caprese Salad | Fresh mozzarella, vine-ripened tomatoes, basil, drizzled with balsamic glaze. | £7.50 |
| Antipasto Misto | A platter of cured meats, olives, artichokes, and roasted peppers. | £9.95 |
| Garlic Mushrooms | Sautéed mushrooms in garlic and parsley, served on toasted ciabatta. | £6.75 |
“The bruschetta at Buon Appetito is a perfect blend of freshness and flavor. It is an ideal way to start your meal.” – Food Critic Review
Pasta Dishes
Italy is synonymous with pasta, and Buon Appetito Essex takes immense pride in its extensive pasta offerings. From creamy sauces to rich tomato bases, every dish is made with homemade pasta or premium imported varieties.
These dishes combine traditional recipes with contemporary flair, satisfying both classicists and adventurous eaters alike.
| Dish | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Spaghetti Carbonara | Spaghetti in a creamy egg, pancetta, and pecorino cheese sauce. | £12.95 |
| Tagliatelle Bolognese | Fresh tagliatelle tossed with a slow-cooked meat and tomato ragu. | £13.50 |
| Penne Arrabbiata | Penne pasta in a spicy tomato and chili sauce. | £11.50 |
| Lasagna al Forno | Traditional oven-baked layers of pasta with meat, béchamel, and cheese. | £14.95 |
| Fettuccine Alfredo | Fettuccine pasta in a rich parmesan cream sauce. | £12.95 |
| Gnocchi Sorrentina | Soft potato gnocchi baked with tomato sauce and mozzarella. | £13.25 |
Wood-Fired Pizzas
Buon Appetito is renowned for its authentic wood-fired pizzas, baked to perfection in a traditional stone oven. The crust is crisp on the outside yet soft and chewy inside, providing the ideal base for premium toppings.
Each pizza is handcrafted using fresh dough and a variety of imported Italian cheeses, meats, and vegetables, ensuring a balanced and delicious flavor profile.
| Pizza | Toppings | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Margherita | Tomato sauce, fresh mozzarella, basil, and extra virgin olive oil. | £10.50 |
| Quattro Formaggi | Mozzarella, gorgonzola, parmesan, and goat cheese. | £12.95 |
| Diavola | Tomato sauce, mozzarella, spicy salami, and chili flakes. | £13.50 |
| Prosciutto e Funghi | Tomato sauce, mozzarella, ham, and mushrooms. | £13.95 |
| Capricciosa | Tomato sauce, mozzarella, ham, artichokes, olives, and mushrooms. | £14.50 |
| Vegetariana | Tomato sauce, mozzarella, peppers, olives, onions, courgettes, and aubergine. | £12.95 |
“The wood-fired pizza at Buon Appetito Essex is a masterpiece—perfectly blistered crust and vibrant toppings that remind you of Naples.” – Local Food Blogger
Main Courses
For those seeking heartier fare, the main courses at Buon Appetito offer a rich variety of meats, seafood, and vegetarian options. Each dish is prepared with care, focusing on traditional Italian methods to enhance natural flavors.
The mains provide a perfect balance to the lighter appetizers and pasta dishes, ideal for a fulfilling meal.
| Dish | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Pollo alla Parmigiana | Breaded chicken breast topped with tomato sauce and melted mozzarella, served with sautéed vegetables. | £16.95 |
| Osso Buco | Slow-braised veal shank cooked with white wine and vegetables, served with risotto. | £22.50 |
| Saltimbocca alla Romana | Veal escalopes wrapped in prosciutto and sage, cooked in a white wine sauce. | £19.95 |
| Grilled Sea Bass | Fresh sea bass fillet grilled and served with lemon butter and seasonal vegetables. | £18.95 |
| Melanzane alla Parmigiana | Baked layers of aubergine, tomato sauce, mozzarella, and parmesan, topped with basil. | £14.50 |
| Beef Tagliata | Grilled sliced sirloin steak served with rocket salad, cherry tomatoes, and parmesan shavings. | £21.95 |
Side Dishes
Complement your meal with a selection of delicious sides that enhance every bite. From fresh salads to crispy potatoes, these options are perfect to share or enjoy on your own.
| Side | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Insalata Mista | Mixed green salad with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and Italian dressing. | £4.95 |
| Patate al Rosmarino | Oven-roasted potatoes with rosemary and garlic. | £4.75 |
| Grilled Vegetables | Seasonal vegetables chargrilled with olive oil and herbs. | £5.50 |
| Garlic Bread | Toasted ciabatta brushed with garlic butter and parsley. | £3.95 |
| Polenta Fries | Crispy fried polenta sticks served with a tomato dipping sauce. | £5.25 |
Desserts
No Italian meal is complete without indulgent desserts. Buon Appetito Essex offers traditional sweets that balance richness with delicate flavors.
From creamy tiramisu to zesty lemon sorbet, the dessert menu provides an ideal ending to your dining experience.
| Dessert | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Tiramisu | Classic layered dessert with espresso-soaked ladyfingers, mascarpone cream, and cocoa. | £6.50 |
| Panna Cotta | Silky smooth cream dessert served with a mixed berry coulis. | £6.25 |
| Cannoli Siciliani | Crispy pastry tubes filled with sweet ricotta and chocolate chips. | £5.95 |
| Gelato Selection | Assorted homemade Italian ice creams in various classic flavors. | £5.50 |
| Lemon Sorbetto | Refreshing lemon sorbet, perfect as a palate cleanser. | £4.95 |
“The tiramisu at Buon Appetito Essex is a triumph of balance and texture – light yet indulgent.” – Dessert Enthusiast Magazine
Beverages
Complement your meal with a curated selection of Italian wines, classic cocktails, and non-alcoholic beverages. The wine list features regional specialties that pair perfectly with the menu’s diverse flavors.
| Beverage | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Chianti Classico | Full-bodied Italian red wine from Tuscany. | £6.50/glass |
| Prosecco DOC | Light and bubbly sparkling white wine. | £7.00/glass |
| Limoncello | Traditional Italian lemon liqueur, served chilled. | £5.00/shot |
| Negroni | Classic cocktail with gin, vermouth rosso, and Campari. | £8.50 |
| Espresso | Strong and rich Italian coffee. | £2.50 |
| Mineral Water | Still or sparkling water. | £2.95 |
About Buon Appetito Essex
Buon Appetito Essex is more than just a restaurant; it is a destination for lovers of genuine Italian cuisine. The chefs bring years of experience and a deep passion for Italian gastronomy, ensuring each dish is crafted with authenticity and care.
The atmosphere combines rustic charm with modern elegance, providing a warm and inviting setting for families, couples, and friends alike. Whether dining in or ordering takeaway, Buon Appetito promises a memorable Italian dining experience.
Reservation and Location
To enjoy the full Buon Appetito Essex menu, reservations are recommended, especially during weekends and holidays. The restaurant is located conveniently in Essex, with ample parking and easy access via public transit.
For bookings, call the restaurant directly or use the online reservation system available on their official website.
“Buon Appetito Essex is a gem for anyone seeking authentic Italian flavors in a welcoming environment.” – Happy Customer
Conclusion
The Buon Appetito Essex menu offers a comprehensive range of Italian dishes, from the freshest appetizers to indulgent desserts. Each section of the menu highlights traditional recipes, enriched by high-quality ingredients and expert preparation.
Whether you are a pasta aficionado, a pizza lover, or someone who enjoys fine Italian main courses, Buon Appetito Essex caters to all tastes and preferences. Visit to experience the true essence of Italy through every bite.
