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Brought to you by La Risata

The translation of La Risata could not ring truer. Meaning “laughter” in Italian, this dining delight is an absolute gem, exuding a certain charm attributed to its friendly staff, scrumptious food, and cosy environment. The rustic Italian setting of red bricks and outdoor terraces instantly transports you to the trattorias of Florence, while the constant warm welcome confirms its reputation as a regular hot spot.

The menu exhibits an extensive variety of authentic Italian dishes ranging from traditional wood-fired pizzas to delicious homemade pastas, from meat and seafood dishes to desserts, all of which exude the very essence of Italian dining.

The Antipasti platter is a safe starting bet in most places, and La Risata’s version features grilled mushroom, deep fried calamari rings, beef carpaccio, and garlic crostinis, with one of the smoothest chicken liver pâtés this side of Rome.

Creamy pastas often have a consistency that is difficult to achieve but La Risata nails it with their house specialty, the Ravioli de Pesce. Freshly made salmon ravioli served in a creamy salmon sauce, this bowlful most definitely hits the spot, and it is worth noting that all their pastas (look out for gnocchi, fettucine, and spaghetti) are made fresh.

Pizza is the undisputed highlight here – there are twenty different types to choose from, as well as the “half-half” pizzas (where two types are combined) that are best enjoyed when shared. A standout dish would be the Pizza D’Anatra featuring succulent smoked duck, rocket, anchovies, sweet caramelised onion, and mozzarella cheese. Vegetarians need not worry as the Pizza Porcini (packed with porcini mushrooms, button mushrooms, and fontina cheese) stands head and shoulders above its carnivorous counterparts.

La Risata’s chefs come up with a “specials” menu each month, so if there’s one available when you visit, give it a go. Salads are a great way to cool off in the KL heat and La Risata has a typically Italian variety.

The dessert selection is not for the faint hearted; it includes that famous Italian staple panna cotta, heavenly tiramisu, zesty parmesan cheesecake, and luscious bread and butter pudding served with butterscotch and ice cream – expect rich, creamy goodness in every bite.

An extensive wine list, ice-cold Italian sodas, chilled fruit juices, and specialty coffee with liquor (try the caffe risata as a surefire pick-me-up) round up the far-reaching choices available on the drinks menu.

La Risata is said to have been serving some of the best Italian food in KL since 1996, and the authentic goodies they whip up are not going to argue with that. Manveen Maan.

La Risata Restaurant Photos

La Risata Food Photos

Location and Contact Details

La Risata Ampang

26 Persiaran Ampang,

View the La Risata’s directory page here for more information.

Read This: 5 Great Pizza Places in KL

First published March, 2013