Baci Italian Cafe @ Citta Mall PJ

Despite the heavy downpour; amidst the horrible Friday evening traffic; albeit running against time; of blotched make up and drenched clothes from tip-toeing under the rain; I made it - and I was glad I did. I had a wonderful evening at Baci, made just in time as a celebratory meal.

Baci Italian Cafe

I have not come across many Italian cafes in town. Its always either an Italian restaurant, or a cafe, and rarely anything in between. But Baci - is the equilibrium of both.

The food served here doesn't require a ritzy setting to be enjoyed. An array of Italian inspired, cafe styled food, from gourmet sandwiches to hearty Italian stews and spaghetti. Paired against a classic, sleek and black interior with a touch of Italian to add. Ladies and Gents, you would love the low-table seats next to the window.

Baci Italian Cafe is not associated with Baci the chocolate. Although both do originate from the same country.

It didn't take long for me to settle in. Seated against a white brick wall, on a comfortable cushioned seat, alongside a conjoined table for 6. If it weren't for the ongoing servings of food and the loud leisurely chats from the rest of us, I would've snuggled up and dozed of. Mind you, it has been a long week for me and it was still drizzling outdoors, even after an evening of heavy downpour.

I also tried Rainbow Cake for the first time! A little more on that when I reach the dessert portion of my write up.

Dilmah Berry Sensation. Rm6.90.

Sinful Chocolate. Rm10.90.

From Italy with passion, they say. They use the Lavazza brew for coffee and chocolate drinks here. 

Smoked Salmon Salad. Rm18.90.

Build your own salad for Rm18.90. They have quite a fair selection to choose from. We had ours with smoked salmon, grilled eggplant, a handful of greens, drenched in honey mustard sauce.

Oxtail Stew. Rm23.90.

Warm and savory stew, chunks of tender oxtail meat, complimented with hearty garlic mashed potatoes hidden beneath. This 4 hour oxtail stew is a Baci classic. Best eaten on a rainy day. 

Chicken and Mushroom Pie. Rm18.90.

All it needs was a press - the buttery and crisp puff pastry sank, revealing a steaming pot of creamy but not overly rich sauce, filled with chicken breast, carrots, mushrooms, potatoes and a sprinkle of Italian herbs.

Spicy Shrimp Aglio Olio. Rm17.90.

One of the best sellers and also one of my favorites of the night. The pasta was done al dante, tossed in garlic-onion olive oil, succulent prawns, and toasted garlic bread at the side.

Chicken Florentine Sandwich. Rm16.90.

For me, the wholegrain roasted chicken breast sandwich came a little dry, hence in need of some sauce. But, together with melted mozzarella, it gave the overall textures a bit of a boost. Strangely, I felt that jam would pair well with this one.

Spicy Chicken Sandwich. Rm16.90.

Spicy grilled chicken breast - the chicken was mildly spicy, more sweet than savory, sprinkled with a hint of cumin and chili flakes to add.

Smoked Beef Bacon Sandwich. Rm16.90.

Toothsome textures overall - from the chewiness of the beef bacon to the crustiness of the ciabatta bread. Again, this could be a little dry for some, but for bacon lovers - you would definitely enjoy this. 

Smoked Duck Pizza. Rm20.90.

On a 9" hand tossed base, a bed of mozzarella cheese, creamy alfredo spread and chewy smoked duck breast. Simple yet delectable. The pizza base could've been toasted tad longer for a crispier sensation though.

Happiest Rainbow Cake. Rm15.50.

Rainbow cakes are always great photography objects. Taste wise though - still better on camera.

Scrumptious Banana Layered Cake. Rm12.50.

A creamier version of our conventional banana cake.  

Macaroons. Rm3/each.

If you're looking for a light macaroon, this is it. 

Heavenly Tartufo. Rm19.50.

Save the best for last they say. If there's one dessert I would recommend everyone to order - it would be this. Easily one of the best tartufo I've had.

Baci Full Menu Here.

Overall Rating: 7/10. My pick of the night would have to be the Oxtail stew - for mains, Spicy shrimp aglio olio - for pastas, Smoked beef bacon sandwich - for something light, Smoked duck pizza - to share, and of course, all hail the Heavenly tartufo - you must order this. The Italian bread deserves an additional mention here as well - the ciabatta and wholegrain bread I sampled was crusty on the outside and fluffy inside, baked fresh daily, you can purchase a loaf from the counters. Notwithstanding, I'm still quite surprised that of the 3 years I've not visited Citta Mall, the place is now booming with restaurants. I will be back.

Baci is located at:
Address: Lot G47, Ground Floor, Citta Mall, No.1, Jalan PJU 1A/48, Ara Damansara, 47301 Petaling Jaya.
Website: www.baci.com.my
Emal: info@baci.com.my
Opening Hours: 10am - 10pm Daily.