Review: Having a ball at The Arancini

Arancini are basically balls of breaded rizotto rice, stuffed with many different fillings, and then deep fried. They originated in Sicily, Italy and that’s where the owners of The Arancini Shop in Hamilton are from. Peter Petruzzi and Kati Pacini serve up a little taste of Italy to Hamiltonians each day from their restaurant on Fennell Avenue, East.

“Two years ago my wife and I made some arancini and we thought that it tasted really good so we put up a website saying that we cater arancini and then we got a good response, so we started growing from there and then we eventually just opened up our own shop,”said Petruzzi.

The Arancini has put its own unique twist to the traditional dish. “Right now we basically sell the classic Sicilian which is filled with mozzarella, tomato sauce and green peas. We also have different fillings such as mozzarella, spinach and ricotta and stuff like that.”

While arancini is the restaurant’s signature dish, it’s not the only thing on the menu. They also serve specialty fries and desserts.

“One specialty fry we have that people like is the alfredo fries. It is basically French fries with alfredo sauce and bruschetta on top. We also have a Nutella arancini, which is basically a dessert risotto made with chocolate and smothered with Nutella on top,” says Petruzzi.

Not many Hamiltonians are aware of what arancini is, so that makes The Arancini a unique eating experience. Mike Salantino is a regular customer. “It’s a good option and alternative to other fast food options that are available in the area.”

The shop opened in September, where guests are treated to a friendly, family-owned dining environment.