Romeo Italian opens on Oxford Street Bulimba with new small plates

Simone Presta has opened Romeo Italian on Oxford Street. This is his third local food business, following the success of his nearby bakery and cafe.
By Newsroom | Food and Dining, Bulimba |

Romeo Italian, a new establishment from former My Kitchen Rules contestant Simone Presta, has opened its doors on Bulimba's Oxford Street, focusing on Italian small plates. The venue, which saw its first Saturday night service packed with local patrons, aims to elevate casual dining through an "imaginative" menu.

Presta's offering centers on a diverse array of small plates, distinguishing itself from nearby establishments like Scugnizzi (Roman grab-and-go) and Doughcraft (French-Italian baked goods). The menu features dishes such as crumbed burrata with cherry tomatoes, savoury cannoli filled with carbonara compote, charred beef lasagne skewers with parmigiana fonduta, braised duck leg risotto, and crispy potato tartan with seared scallop.

Larger pasta dishes and mains are also available, with experimental touches evident. The prawn risotto incorporates zucchini cream and mint, while the bolognese is presented as a white ragu, and the vodka pasta is served with guanciale and mafaldine.

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Romeo Italian, located at 161 Oxford Street, marks Presta's latest venture in the Bulimba area, following his involvement with Doughcraft and Scugnizzi. The restaurant's opening adds to the local culinary landscape, with other Italian-inspired eateries like iL Molo already present on Oxford Street, which offers an all-day Italo dining experience with riverfront views.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Where is the new Romeo Italian restaurant located in Bulimba?
Romeo Italian is located at 161 Oxford Street in Bulimba. It opened recently to serve local residents and visitors looking for Italian small plates.
Q: Who is the owner of the new Romeo Italian restaurant on Oxford Street?
The restaurant is owned by Simone Presta, who is a former contestant on the show My Kitchen Rules. He also owns other local businesses like Scugnizzi and Doughcraft.
Q: What kind of food does Romeo Italian serve on their menu?
The menu focuses on creative Italian small plates such as crumbed burrata, savoury carbonara cannoli, and charred beef lasagne skewers. They also offer larger pasta dishes like white ragu bolognese and prawn risotto with zucchini cream.
Q: How does Romeo Italian differ from other restaurants on Oxford Street?
Unlike nearby grab-and-go shops or traditional riverfront dining, Romeo Italian focuses on imaginative small plates. It offers a new dining experience that complements existing local spots like iL Molo and Scugnizzi.