Rustic Italian Charm

A cheerful Italian gastronomic escape was on the cards for Apple Sharma, as she relished a festive menu full of seasonal delights and an unforgettable dining experience at LaRocca.
Tucked away in the heart of Saar, LaRocca is a quintessential Italian eatery inspired by the iconic 16th century Italian fortress. This hidden gem offers a modern interpretation of authentic Italian cuisine, showcasing a passion for simple yet timeless recipes.
As you walk along cobbled pathways to LaRocca’s alcove entrance, it feels like you’ve stepped into a quaint Italian village. At the back of the restaurant, a cosy pizzeria comes to life with chefs preparing pizza and fresh pasta – a lovely, rustic scene straight out of a picture book.
With both indoor and outdoor seating, LaRocca is a sight to behold. The outside terrace features wooden beams with overhanging Edison bulbs and wooden shutter windows. For the festive season, this cosy space is beautifully decorated, complete with a Christmas tree, baubles on surrounding trees and tables decked with holly. The inside is as impressive – an intimate glass house with an electric overhead canopy that opens in the evening, offering a view of the starlit skies above. Just inside the entrance is a gingerbread house adorned with the staff names, a heartwarming touch.
From the moment we arrived, the service at LaRocca was exceptional. Greeted by Restaurant Manager Mahesh Mohanan and his friendly team, we felt like treasured guests. The pristine table settings and silver service, delivered with genuine smiles, elevated our experience to fine-dining level.




Taking our seats overlooking the terrace, we started with a shot of refreshing virgin limoncello. A basket of freshly baked bread soon arrived, accompanied by Italian extra virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar.
As we waited for the starters, we got into the festive spirit by popping Christmas crackers, donning paper crowns and sharing ‘dad jokes’, staying true to tradition!
Complementing the festive ambience, we were treated to a variety of lovely drinks, including our favourite Oh Mia Passione – a delightful concoction of passion fruit, raspberry and lemon – expertly crafted by bartender Jerus Baluma.
LaRocca’s delightful list of Italian classics from its regular menu and seasonal specials from its festive menu, had us salivating and we were eager to try them all.
We started with Nero al Tartufo – truffle-infused black risotto balls with truffle cheese, parmesan and mozzarella, served with bittersweet chocolate sauce and a unique truffle twist on cacio e pepe (cheese and pepper). Topped with crispy vermicelli for a delicate crunch and subtle truffle notes, this was my absolute favourite and I vowed to return for this dish alone.
Next, we tried the freshly baked Neapolitana pizza. Combining mozzarella, marinara, pesto drops and basil, it was a definite crowd pleaser. Soft melted cheese fell apart as we took our individual slices and the dollop of pesto and basil leaves brought out the freshness of the ingredients – a nod to authentic Italian cuisine.
From the sea, the Puttanesca Hammour was a Mediterranean fusion delight. The tender, oven-baked and grilled fish paired beautifully with zesty and tangy puttanesca sauce, roasted baby potatoes and dill, while the fluffy saffron risotto made for a light, fragrant accompaniment.


Of course, we had to sample LaRocca’s pasta (made fresh inhouse by Chef Maricel Baliguat), and the Gamberoni Al Limone didn’t disappoint. The capellini pasta, tossed in a creamy lemon sauce with pan-seared prawns, lemon and orange zest and parmigiano was refreshingly light, leaving a pleasant citrus taste lingering on the palate.
While we relished these amazing dishes, Executive Chef Ishara Dilipu Anuradha joined us to talk about LaRocca’s festive specials.
The Ravioli Blueberry, with gorgonzola and parmesan, was wonderfully unique and reminded me of one of my own favourite holiday creations, Brie and cranberry pastry parcels. Meanwhile, the Anatra delle Feste, a sous vide duck breast glazed in a rich balsamic berry reduction, was a standout. Served with creamy mashed potatoes, the fruity festive flavours paired beautifully with the subtle, earthy duck, making this a dish to savour.


A surprising twist came in the form of Fettuccine al Mirtillo Rosso, a simple dish of homemade pasta tossed in a sweet pomodoro sauce with tangy cranberry notes. Following that, we were excited to try the Frutti Filet Mignon – a seared steak cooked to perfection, accompanied by sautéed spinach, vegetables and a smoky fig and cranberry sauce. Juicy, tender, fruity and utterly unique, it was a perfect centrepiece for a holiday feast.
For dessert, LaRocca’s offerings were as divine as the previous courses. The classic Tiramisu, with airy mascarpone and espresso-soaked savoiardi biscuits, was a unanimous favourite – so good it disappeared within moments. The Sorrento, a zesty lemon mousse with a mirror glaze, lemon curd, white chocolate shell and berries was equally memorable with its smooth, citrusy flavours.
From the festive menu, the Torta di Formaggio – a blueberry cheesecake with a crumbly biscuit base – delighted us with its stunning presentation and creamy texture. We ended our feast with Festa in Tavola, a soft, fluffy Christmas fruit cake with blackcurrants, raisins and mixed spices, accompanied by a round of coffees and a delicious hot chocolate, aptly named La Bella Vita (beautiful life), also part of the festive menu.

As we wrapped up the evening, La Rocca left us with a lovely parting gesture – a handwritten postcard featuring a quaint Italian scene, with a personal message. It was a thoughtful touch that epitomises the restaurant’s hospitality.
LaRocca offers a charming dining experience that feels like a warm embrace. With authentic Italian dishes, festive cheer and impeccable service, it’s a must-visit for anyone craving the flavours of Italy. ✤
GO: CALL 77907797 OR FOLLOW @LAROCCABH FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO MAKE A RESERVATION.
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