Literally translating to ‘enjoy life’; Godi La Vita is the fresh new offering on King Will in Hyde Park. Owned by husband and wife team Federico and Laurie Godi, Godi La Vita was inspired by Federico’s childhood in Florence. Frederico, who is also the Head Chef has translated a childhood immersed in food, flavours and family to a menu offering breakfast, lunch and dinner.
You might accidentally drive past Godi La Vita (you can chuck a u-ey at the pub as I did!) as from the street it is camouflaged by a heavy vine covered veranda in keeping with the heritage of King William Road. The heritage exterior is continued inside with a vine covered feature wall, greenery and use of mint green tiles. There is almost fluidity between outside and inside; heritage translated into modernism.
We were treated to a cocktail style reception, which enabled us to try a little bit of everything. Bacon wrapped scallops, local mussels baked with bread crumbs, delicate kingfish ceviche and a huge antipasti spread left us feeling pretty full. We claimed a spot towards the back of the venue in-between the kitchen and the cheese bar provided by Bottega Rotolo (strategic right?). Bottego Rotolo allowed us to sample the cheese that will be served on the platters in the restaurant including a favourite of ours: Italian black truffle cheese served with truffle honey.
The menu has a little something for everyone. An extensive breakfast menu with juices and smoothies no doubt will appeal to the brunch crown in the area. Lunch and dinner offers handmade pastas and gnocci, pork ribs and steak. Food to go will be on offer for lunches as well with a huge cabinet front and center in the venue poised to be stocked with healthy salads and paninis. There is also a good variety of antipasti which can be mixed and matched for sharing (we recommend with wine).
Speaking of wine, Godi La Vita has partnered with Wine Resources to provide customers with a range of commissioned wines. Taking the idea of house wine to the next level, the personalised offering is designed to complement the menu. There is also a selection of Italian wines supplied by Bottega Rotolo for those with more international tastes.
The mentality is this, the name; at ‘Godi La Vita’ you really will enjoy life.
Images: provided
