The word ‘authentic’ is thrown around pretty loosely these days. So, let’s get one thing straight – Pepé Italia is, in fact, as authentic as they come. If the names of the owners alone don’t convince you, then the menu certainly will. Italian natives Andrea Fabrizio, Tonino Amadio and Daniele Iacobone are the faces behind the new eatery, and, after relocating from Melbourne, the trio are now bringing their own deep-seeded culinary traditions to the Gold Coast. The space formerly occupied by Nando’s, just metres from Burleigh beach, has been transformed into an Italian foodie hub, with dark timber wares, exposed pendant globes and black-and-white prints across the walls. The photo of a rather busty, scantily clad Sophia Loren with the text “Everything you see, I owe to spaghetti …”, will give you the extra reassurance you need to tuck into Pepé’s Pappardelle Alla Bolognese.
The menu, which spans both lunch and dinner, is brimming with mouth-watering Italian dishes. If you prefer the favourites like arancini, homemade meatballs, a margherita pizza or a cheesy pecorino-topped carbonara, then you’re in luck. For those looking to step outside the square, then you’ll be happy to know that the Pepé menu also features plenty of dishes that are a little less mainstream. The olive all’ascolana is a house specialty – crumbed and fried Sicilian olives stuffed with pork, beef and chicken. There’s also a calzone pizza filled with spaghetti, napoli sauce, prawns, calamari, clams and mussels, or you can keep it light with the grilled seafood platter. In a true sign of Italian authenticity, you’ll find no more than a handful of different ingredients on Pepé’s pizzas. The pizza menu is extensive, but the aptly named Pepe pizza has our hearts with its truffle puree base, fior di latte, porcini mushroom, sausage, rocket, parmesan and generous splash of olive oil. If you’re up for a feast, or just want to swing by for a mid-morning piccolo and sneaky cannoli, then you’d best hotfoot it to Pepé Italia.
For opening hours and location, check out our Stumble Guide.
