Rocca Ristorante & Bar

‘Christmas dine, mistletoe and wine.’

Yes, Christmas is indeed the time for dining out and of course, we’re super excited about that.

There is a catch though – this usually means that January and February are tumbleweed zones for foodies as by then, everyone is much too skint for restaurants.

So why not beat the tumbleweed (and the nightly beans ’n’ toast) with this Big Deal on a hearty Italian meal for two at Rocca Ristorante in the new year?

It goes without saying that this offer would also make a very tasty Christmas gift.

Italian meal for two

Beyond its impressive stone facade, Rocca Ristorante in Hamilton is a plush dining space of purple velvet banquette seating and shining glassware. Yet although it is a lovely setting for a special get-together, the relaxed vibe means that it’s great for unwinding in too.

Today’s Big Deal on a meal for two from Rocca is available seven days a week and has two options.

Option one is for a pizza or classic pasta from the Naples menu, plus a glass of prosecco each. Fizz can be swapped for a soft drink or fruit juice.

This option is available from noon until 7pm.

Option two is for a three course lunch for two from selected sections of the Taste of Italy menu.

The lunch option is available from noon until 4pm.

Guests can enjoy their meal up until the 28th February 2019.

Chic dining spot

Refreshed and rebranded just over a year ago, Rocca Ristorante is a smart Italian restaurant on Cadzow Street in the town centre.

Combining a friendly neighbourhood atmosphere with a sleek interior, it is an intimate spot for a romantic meal, maybe accompanied by a cheeky cocktail or two from the extensive menu, which also lists twenty different gins.

The restaurant offers on-site parking and Hamilton train station is only a ten minute walk away. Hamilton Park Racecourse is also nearby.

Pizza or pasta

Pasta choices for option one could include the penne bolognese in a slow-cooked ragu of Scotch beef, pork, red wine & herbs, and the risotto funghi with mushrooms, truffle oil, thyme, white wine & cream.

The pizza range includes the ever-popular Margherita alongside the Scottish-Italian fusion house speciality, Pizza Di Rocca, which is generously topped with delicious Scottish haggis.

All mains will be accompanied by a glass of prosecco each.

Three course meal

If you choose option two, then starters could include the house chicken liver pate served with toasted Italian bread and spiced tomato chutney or the fresh breaded mushrooms served with a garlic mayonnaise.

For mains, as well as pizza and pasta choices, expect decadent sandwiches such as the slow-roasted Italian pulled pork in ciabatta or the ‘posh haddock’ served on a brioche bun.

Or you could opt for the hearty torta di pesce gratinato – a homestyle pie made with locally sourced fish, potato au gratin, Parmesan and herbs.

Desserts choices will include the popular homemade apple crumble short sundae and the caramello classic warm caramel shortcake, both served with award-winning Equi’s ice cream.

Happy guests

Rocca has proven to be very popular with 5pm diners, who particularly praise the good food and friendly staff. Here is a selection of reviews:

‘Best restaurant in Hamilton. Nothing is too much trouble for the staff. Food fantastic and staff second to none. Amazing experience. Can’t wait to go back!’ 5/5

‘Superb. We went for an early evening meal and Rocca was very busy… despite this the service and food was excellent! Looking forward to returning!’ 5/5

‘Lots of variety to choose from. Friendly staff, good wine.’ 5/5

Christmas gift idea

Who doesn’t love an Italian meal? This Big Deal would make a very welcome Christmas present for either a couple or your other half.

Available seven days a week, what better way to embrace early 2019 than with a slap-up pizza or pasta in a stylish and welcoming restaurant?