Our grumbling stomachs drew us in to browse the menu and specials board at Marco’s Olive Branch, and before we knew it, we were inside enjoying a plate of carasau (traditional Sardinian bread) and a glass of Franco Superiore San Marco.
Marco hails from Northern Sardinia and is proud to serve produce from his home country – wild boar and suckling pig abound across the island and both can be found at Marco’s. My companion raved about the quality of the meat while devouring a bowl of braised wild boar with olives, but not before we had sampled an enormous sharing platter for starters. To get a real taste of traditional Sardinian food I decided to try a dish that Marco’s mother used to cook – lamb marinated for a few hours then cooked with artichokes, olives and cherry tomatoes. The result was meat so tender it flaked at the touch of a fork.
Our meal here was so fantastic that we’re planning a return to take advantage of the all-you-can-eat lunchtime buffet. Available from Monday to Friday, from noon until 3pm, it costs just £8.25 for access to a range of pastas, pizzas, traditional salads, meats, cheeses, fruits and more. The price also nets you a free soft drink. Truly, an authentic slice of Sardinia has arrived in Bristol.