Living in a big city is tough. As we run around trying to realize our dreams, it’s nice to have a port in the storm. Sure, we all have our own strategies to lighten up, but if books and movies are to be believed, Italian food might just be the universal remedy.
Tina’s Italian Restaurant is a good choice when you’re fighting the blues. Looking quite ordinary from the outside, the restaurant has focused its efforts on interior design.
Almost everything is carved from wood, including the ceiling, and a majestic grand piano awaits patrons in the center of the hall. The owner, Christina Lu, has collected dozens of mosaic art pieces, including an interpretation of Starry Night by Van Gogh, which she’s used to adorn the walls of the restaurant.
Instead of serving typical Italian cuisine found in expat-oriented restaurants, Tina’s has tweaked classic recipes to satisfy locals. The result is a mix of dishes that allow one to explore the intricacies of traditional Italian cuisine while enjoying a range of other Western dishes.
We kick off with bruschetta (RMB58), topped with mozzarella, tomatoes and tuna, and the Spanish garlic shrimp (RMB98), which is fresh with an abundantly rich taste. Even a few Eastern European dishes make an appearance and we enjoy a plate of traditional Russian borsch (RMB54) made with juicy beetroot.
One of the main dishes is Moqieca (RMB268), a Brazilian salt-water fish stew served with three rice bowls that is large enough for a group. Australian Kobe beef comes at RMB580 and is an expertly tender, substantial main. A variety of breads, like the chewy baguette (RMB12) made fresh on site, are also popular takeaway items.
We sip on limoncellos and cold brew coffee to clear our palates for dessert. The souffle (RMB38) is smooth and sweet and pairs perfectly with our drinks. Lu tells us her daughter has personalized each dessert recipe, ensuring an original flavor that can only be found at Tina’s.
With a slow playlist echoing throughout the immaculate dining room and an opulent, old-world vibe, Tina’s fills Shenzhen’s cultural void with a bit of comfort and tradition.
Price: RMB150-200 per person
Who’s going: music and art lovers, comfort food seekers
Good for: romantic dinners, Italian fusion, baked goods
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