Rocca Ristorante & Bar

January and February are normally tumbleweed zones for foodies as 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?

Italian meal for two

Beyond its impressive stone facade, Rocca Ristorante in Hamilton is a plush dining space. 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 a la carte menu up to the value of £13.95, plus a glass of prosecco each.

This option is available from noon until 7pm.

Option two is for a three course lunch for two from the Midweek Let’s Lunch menu, Saturday market menu or Hearty Sunday menu, with glass of Prosecco each.

The lunch option is available from noon until 4pm.

Guests can enjoy their meal up until the 29th February 2020. Fizz can be swapped for a soft drink or fruit juice.

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.

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

Gift idea

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

Available seven days a week, what better way to embrace early 2020 than with a slap-up pizza or pasta in a stylish and welcoming restaurant?