The risotto — which was £27, or around $33 — features Italian pancetta, broad beans, chicken stock, and Parmesan cheese. Risotto isn't usually the most photogenic dish, but the green beans added a really nice pop of color to this plate.
My friend Ollie, a UK native, told me he still remembered the risotto he had at the River Cafe 12 years ago, so I was very excited for this dish. Risotto seems to be one of those signature items that always end up, in some form, on Rogers' menu.
The words I'd use to describe this risotto are earthy, unique, and comforting. The rice was perfectly cooked — not mushy like risotto can so easily become — and the pancetta added this savory smokiness that contrasted nicely with the broad beans' fresh crunch. All the ingredients worked together to create a dish that was both delicious and surprising to my palate.