Thulisa Martins

Food
The old-time favourite, courgette fritters, are so moreish with a light crisp batter as a starter/ antipasti. Another dish noted in the antipasti section is bruschette miste – a toasted Italian bread topped with marinated tomato, grilled vegetables, fresh mozzarella and basil.

Most of the pasta in the mains selection is homemade and, in true Italian style, there are plenty of delicious authentic Italian dishes to choose from. A popular main is the tagliolini ai funghi e tartufo, which is pasta tossed with wild mushrooms, fresh rocket and a touch of truffle oil, topped with parmesan. Seafood lovers should go for the calamarata del pescatorenis: full of flavour in a light creamy white wine sauce, the tender calamari is cooked very well with sweet prawns and mussels, and come served on an artisanal ring pasta. Another mouth-watering traditional dish that is true soul food is the ossobuco di vitello, a slow-cooked veal shin with vegetables, fresh herbs and red wine enjoyed with either soft polenta or fresh pasta.

The dessert menu has a selection of traditional Italian gems such as tiramisu and pavlova. Also try the dolce della nonna, with layers of Amaretti biscuits, a light coffee flavour, zabaglione, cream, a touch of nutty flavour from the walnuts and some chocolate flakes. The panna cotta is creamy and is served with a tangy berry sauce and fresh strawberries.

Drinks
The wine list includes some local favourites like the Ken Forester Renegade, as well as lovely Italian wines at affordable prices.

Service
Very friendly, well informed and they make recommendations to guests. The kids are invited to see the food being made.

Ambience
The ambience is warm and calm on a winter’s evening. There’s an outdoor table setting ideal for summer nights. The tables are covered with white table cloths and champagne-coloured overlays; the windows draped with red curtains. This restaurant looks like the locals’ favourite spot, especially for the more mature citizens, and it is family friendly.

(August 2018)

Eat Out critics dine anonymously and pay for their meals in full. Read our editorial policy here.