Bocca Ristorante Dinner menu overview
Nestled in the heart of Birmingham's Central City, Bocca Ristorante offers an exquisite Northern Italian dining experience where every dish is crafted with passion and authenticity. Known for its warm, brick-lined ambiance and impeccable service, this restaurant invites food lovers and trend-conscious travelers to indulge in a carefully curated menu featuring scratch-made pastas, house-cured meats, and cheeses, complemented by an extensive wine and cocktail selection.
Starters
Begin your meal with a selection of mouthwatering antipasti that perfectly balance traditional flavors and fresh ingredients. The Arancini di Riso features crispy risotto croquettes paired with a vibrant vodka sauce that’s beloved by many. For a creamy contrast, the Prosciutto with Burrata is served alongside peppery arugula and drizzled with quality olive oil. Spicy Veal Meatballs bring a savory kick enhanced by pignolis and Pecorino Romano, all nestled in a rich tomato sauce. The Heirloom Tomato Caprese offers fresh mozzarella, fragrant basil, and a balsamic glaze for a refreshing bite. Don’t miss the Baked Gulf Oysters topped with Calabrian chile, smoky bacon, and buttery bread crumbs. For something classic, the Caesar Salad with house-made dressing, anchovies, and crunchy croutons is a crisp delight. Lastly, the Panzanella salad combines tomatoes, olives, basil, and parmesan for a colorful and savory start.
Mains
The main courses showcase Bocca’s mastery of Italian flavors and local ingredients. Pasta lovers will appreciate the Bucatini Pomodoro with fresh basil and olive oil, or the Tagliatelle Bolognese adorned with Grana Padano cheese. The Garganelli with asparagus blends lemon and sun-dried tomatoes in a creamy pecorino sauce, while the Braised Short Rib Pappardelle offers tender meat with English peas and Cipollini onions. The Handkerchief Pasta features Maine lobster and butternut squash with a pesto finish for a luxurious twist.
Seafood highlights include the Gulf Shrimp Scampi, served with linguini, broccolini, and pine nuts in a garlic butter white wine sauce, and the Pan Seared Gulf Red Snapper accompanied by broccolini and risotto in a delicate white wine butter sauce. The Scallop Risotto combines creamy vegetable risotto with asparagus and basil pesto, offering a fresh, fragrant finish. Meat options like Veal Marsala feature artisanal mushrooms and asparagus in a complex veal glace, while the Duroc Pork Porchetta blends sausage, bacon, and sage with couscous and fig for an innovative flavor profile. Steak enthusiasts will savor the Cast Iron Seared Tuscan Ribeye with tomato butter and mushroom gratin, and the Seared Gulf Snapper presents early summer ratatouille and a pine nut basil relish.
Desserts
End your culinary journey on a sweet note with unique desserts like the Italian Butter Crunch Doughnut, featuring toffee, walnuts, almonds, and salted caramel ice cream. The strawberry semifreddo offers a refreshing, fruity finish that’s both light and satisfying. Each dessert is crafted to provide a distinct and memorable conclusion to your Bocca dining experience.
Drinks & Specials
Bocca Ristorante boasts an extensive but thoughtfully curated wine list ideal for pairing with every dish. Their cocktail program shines, with expertly prepared drinks like the Ketel One vodka martini and the standout Carajillo, a delightful after-dinner espresso cocktail. The bar team’s craft is evident, creating classic and inventive beverages that elevate your dining experience. Be sure to ask about nightly specials, such as the Braised Beef Short Rib with polenta and artisanal mushrooms, a hearty indulgence that often sells out.
- Authentic Northern Italian recipes focused on scratch-made pastas and fresh local ingredients.
- Warm and inviting atmosphere perfect for date nights and special occasions.
- Expertly crafted cocktails and extensive wine selection curated to complement each flavor journey.
