The Place
Newly installed in Xiasha’s KK One mall, Ciao Caro is betting on a broad array of international dishes and craft beer to draw in customers.
Its ample space includes both a stage for musicians and a large patio, which will surely see more use once fall comes.
On the inside, small and dimly lit tables suggest intimate gatherings rather than rowdy drinking sessions.
The Food
Ciao Caro has pizza and burgers, but its standout signature is a German-style roasted ham hock (RMB198): crunchy skin covers an ample layer of fat, while the meat remains tender, if a little dry. Luckily, it’s accompanied by gravy, sauerkraut and two potato-based sides, liberally sprinkled with more pork bits.
For the health-conscious, the Parma vegetable salad (RMB38) is decent stuff, with a slightly nutty honey-mustard dressing over greens and a few slices each of meat and avocado.
A pasta dish (RMB38) isn’t al dente, but it’s satisfying enough with plenty of mushrooms and cream sauce. A chewy, crispy slice of garlic bread side leaves a more vivid impression, as well as a savory, if unsexy, aftertaste.
Out of 25 taps that heavily favor beers from the US (Boulevard, Founders) and Belgium (Liefmans, Hoegaarden), we go with Obama’s favored Goose Island 312 (RMB50). It goes down easy with barely a hint of hops.
The Vibe
Ciao Caro may not have the most authentic Western cuisine we’ve ever tasted, but the dishes are nevertheless solidly crafted. Plus, service is responsive and on-tap offerings on point.
Customers quickly fill up the restaurant and bar during dinner hours on a weeknight. We spot quite a few families among the mix, but also younger folks out for a nice meal. Helped along by reasonable prices, Ciao Caro seems to be succeeding in its bid for popular appeal.
Price: RMB40-80
Who’s going: families, non-dieters
Good for: budget-friendly Western food, craft beer
Nearest metro: Xiasha (Exit B), 8 minutes
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