Tasty but carb heavy side

Zeppole

Brand: Jolly Pasta

Price: 429 yen

Place of purchase: Jolly Pasta

Rating:

These little zeppole (basically fried bread rolls) are a nice addition to the Jolly Pasta menu if you're after something a little different from the usual pasta sides. Our table really enjoyed their chewy texture, which gives them a satisfying bite. You get two sauces as an accompaniment for dipping, which is nice, too. The basil sauce works well for some freshness with the fried bread, and the aioli is another good option if you prefer something creamy and savory. They're bite-sized, easy to share and have a really Italian-inspired feel. A simple side dish, but one that adds a bit of variety to the meal.

While I enjoyed these, they're not necessarily something I'd rush back to Jolly Pasta specifically to order. The flavor of the bread itself is fairly mild, so much of the enjoyment depends on the dipping sauces. I also think that the chewy texture becomes a little repetitive after a few pieces. Because they're fried, they're also not the healthiest, and if you're something less carb heavy after loading up on pizza and pasta then this might not be your best pick. The portion is also more of a snack or side dish than something substantial, so if you've got a group I recommend ordering a few different sides.