Fantasticaaa Fantastic Firsts - Chef Cristian Torsiello, Osteria Arbustico, Capaccio (Sa)

Chef Cristian Torsiellp

During the drive to Osteria Arbustico that Saturday, I was hit with everything from bright sunshine to strong winds and heavy downpours.  My drive to the Michelin starred restaurant located in Capaccio took me past the seaside where the waves were high, rough, and just a bit frightening.  A bit frightening, but honestly, a little exciting, since I was on my way to taste the cuisine of Chef Cristian Torsiello. A trip that I haven't made in over a year.

As I pulled into the parking lot of Royal Hotel Paestum, where the restaurant has been located for nearly two years, the rain had stopped.  This gave me just enough time to dash into the lobby and make my 1 pm reservation.
As I was led to my table and was treated to an aperitif and some amazing appetizers, I was curious as to what was going in the kitchen.  I always am.  So with the chefs permission, I entered inside Torsiellos spa del cibo.  His kitchen where the chef, and two trusted members of his brigade were at the pass preparing his risotto - perfect for the fall season.

I watched attentively as Marco Zoppicante and Giueppe Scala plated risotto with buffalo milk cheese, roasted onion and black truffles. 

Giuseppe Scala and Marco Zoppicante

The aromas that arose from this dish were fantasticaaa...

Next up,

a mixed pasta minestra with turnip tops, clams, basil, and lupini bean foam.

Two dishes, a creamy risotto - a flavorful minestra, which  I must confess, had me reaching for the bread basket to sop up the fabulous flavors that Torsiello had shared with me that afternoon.

Did I say fabulous? 

I meant fantastic!