Elegant, fresh, and slightly spicy—our Stracciatella Dip is for the refined palate that still wants to have a little fun. This vegetarian-friendly starter is a favorite for patio sipping and sunset views.
The Details: Fresh mozzarella curd (the creamy heart of burrata!) topped with bold Calabrian chili oil and our vibrant house-made pesto.
The Crunch: Served with warm, crusty sourdough bread.
Dietary: Vegetarian (VEG).
Price: $15
The Perfect Pour: We recommend the Tiziano Pinot Grigio ($9) for a crisp, floral pairing.
The Story of the Stracciatella Dip
When we designed the menu for Point Nine, we wanted to bridge the gap between “trailside casual” and “upscale bistro.” The Stracciatella Dip is the perfect bridge. If you’ve ever cut into a ball of Burrata cheese and watched that creamy, shredded center spill out—that’s Stracciatella. It is the most decadent part of the mozzarella-making process, and we’ve made it the star of this dish. It’s light enough for a summer afternoon but rich enough to feel like a true indulgence.
The Craft: The Trinity of Flavor
The secret to this dish is the balance of three distinct profiles: the cream, the herb, and the heat. We start with high-quality mozzarella curd that is incredibly milky and soft. We then layer on our housemade pesto, which is packed with fresh basil and garlic to provide an earthy, aromatic punch.
To prevent the dish from being too “one-note” creamy, we finish it with a drizzle of Calabrian chili oil. These specific Italian chilies offer a sophisticated, fruity heat that lingers without being overwhelming. When you scoop all three onto a piece of our toasted sourdough, you get a perfect harmony of flavors that feels like a trip to the Italian coast right here in Andover, Kansas.
The Trailside Experience
There is perhaps no dish better suited for a “Golden Hour” session on the Point Nine patio. As the sun begins to set over the Redbud Trail, the bright greens of the pesto and the vibrant red of the chili oil look stunning under our patio lights. It’s a sophisticated choice for a “Wine Wednesday” or a post-ride treat for cyclists who want something high-protein and fresh rather than fried. It’s also a top-tier choice for our vegetarian guests looking for a starter that doesn’t compromise on bold, savory flavors.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is this dish vegetarian? Yes! It is 100% vegetarian-friendly (VEG).
- Is the chili oil very spicy? It has a gentle, warming heat. Calabrian chilies are known for being flavorful rather than “scorching,” making this dish approachable for most palates.