It seems wrong describing someone as Butcher To The Stars, but that's a good description of Dario Cecchini. Just google him and you'll find out that Elton John once paid him $2500 for a single steak and his fans include everyone from Prince Charles to Manhattan celebrity chef Mario Batali . You may also remember him from Bill Buford's excellent book, Heat.
So forgive us if we're rather stage-struck to learn that Dario will be in London next week for a special dinner at Fifteen London. It seems Dario's known Jamie for years and every Fifteen apprentice gets to visit Dario's restaurant in Tuscany.
Fifteen plays host to Dario and his childhood friend Giovanni Manetti from the Fontodi estate in what promises to be an amazing meal, recreating a signature meal from Dario's Ristorante Solocicca in Tuscany. (Tip - don't read the menu below if you're at all hungry, it'll push you over the edge.)
Crostini di sugo all’uso di Natale
Spicy meat ragu on toast
Fritto del macellaio
Deep- fried meats and vegetables
Ramerino in culo
Rosemary cheeks
Pinzimonio di verdure dell’orto
Fresh, raw garden vegetables
Mischianza di fagioli e ceci
Garbanzo and white beans
Ciccia arrosto
A roasted dish
Tenerumi in insalata
Boiled beef and vegetable salad
Ciccia in umido
A braised dish
Torta all’olio
Olive oil cake
The dinner on 10 March costs £125 which includes Dario’s meal, Giovanni’s wines, water and coffee. To book call Fifteen London on 0203 375 1515.
