Behind the Scenes: How Our Chefs Create the Salt Baked John Dory at il Giardino at 1215

Il Giardino at 1215 brings a new Italian spirit to our dining scene at Fairmont Windsor Park, and one dish is already capturing attention. The salt baked John Dory is a showpiece that arrives at the table encased in a golden crust before being revealed by the front of house team. It is theatrical, aromatic and full of delicate flavour. For guests who enjoy a look behind the pass, here is how our chefs prepare this signature plate.

STEP ONE: Preparing the John Dory

The process begins with careful preparation of the fish. The chefs remove the gills and clean the cavity before filling the belly with slices of fragrant bergamot. This citrus brings a bright aroma that lifts the natural sweetness of the John Dory.

STEP TWO: Creating the Herb Salt Crust

The salt crust is what gives the dish its dramatic look when it reaches the table. The team brings together parsley, basil and rosemary picked fresh from the hotel gardens. These herbs are blended with lemon, salt, egg white and flour to form a dough that locks in moisture during cooking and infuses the fish with gentle perfume.

STEP THREE: Rolling the Dough

The dough is rolled until it reaches the ideal thickness for baking. Too thin and the crust will crack. Too thick and the fish will steam rather than roast. The chefs work with precision to reach the perfect balance.

STEP FOUR: Encasing the Fish

Once the dough is ready, the John Dory is placed on a sheet of it. A second layer of dough is rolled and placed over the top. The chefs shape and seal the edges, then add decorative touches that bring a sense of craft to the finished bake.

STEP FIVE: Baking and Resting

The fish is placed into the oven where the herb crust hardens into a protective shell. After baking, it is rested to allow the heat to settle and the flavours to develop.

STEP SIX: Tableside Service

The final flourish happens in the dining room. Our front of house team presents the whole salt bake to the table and opens the crust in front of guests. The steam carries the scent of garden herbs and citrus and the fish inside is tender, delicate and perfectly cooked.

Visit il Giardino at 1215

This dish captures the heart of Italian coastal cooking and demonstrates the attention to detail that defines our new restaurant concept. If you are searching for Italian dining in Windsor or looking to experience one of the region’s most impressive tableside presentations, il Giardino at 1215 is ready to welcome you.

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