Tonight VGSN members had the pleasure of attending a familiarization event at Il Covo Trattoria, newly opened at the end of Superior and Kingston Streets. The menu specializes in Tuscan and Northern Italian food created from family recipes handed down over the years. Simple fresh food is served Italiano style, prepared by Chef Caesar and delivered by a competent team of servers. We sampled something delicious from each section of the menu, starting with warm fresh and tasty focaccia bread served with olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Antipasto Misto Della Casa followed, a delicious plate of cured meats, cheese, bruschetta, artichokes, baby shrimp salad & pickles. A salad formed the third course - Finocchi E Arance Alla Veneziana. Now that’s a mouthful and indeed it was, with mixed greens, orange segments, shaved fennel, red onions and black olives tossed with lemon basil dressing and pecorino cheese. Primi Piatti is the 'first plate' and our fourth course (!), we were served Penne Alla Puttanesca, a traditional and legendary pasta. This dish has an interesting history, it was originally served by poor Italian prostitutes to their families . Lucky families! The penne was tossed with black olives, capers, garlic and anchovies in a fresh roma tomato sauce. Our 'Secondi Piatti', Risotto Ai Funghi Porcini, was a creamy aborio rice with prosecco, porcini mushrooms & asparagus, finished with parmigiano cheese. By now, we are loosening our belt buckles! Dessert was an array of fresh fruit and custard on pastry. Il Covo has a fine looking wine list, and one of the best house wines we have ever tasted. Everyone enjoyed the meal in beautiful surroundings, with friendly, helpful staff. There is an inviting garden patio for outdoor eating in an al fresco Italian style. Il Covo is an authentic family-run Italian dining experience with a warm, old world Tuscan ambiance. There is nothing else quite like it in Victoria! For more pictures visit or Facebook site.
