Va Pensiero

We went early (6PM) for dinner as we had our children with us to celebrate my birthday. We did book beforehand but it wasn't really necessary as it was largely empty at that time (but filled up quickly later). The menu is perhaps rather large with too many choices but I am sure from previous experience that any choice will turn out to be very good. There were a number of specials and I chose a Filetto alla griglia (Grilled fillet steak in red onion, mushroom and a light tomato sauce with red wine) which was very nice. My son was very happy with his margarita pizza and my daughter with her spaghetti carbonara. One excellent feature of this restaurant is that they offer children's portions of most main meals - not just chicken nuggets or similar as in so many other places! We chose a slightly more expensive than the House wine. This was a very acceptable Sicilian red wine. By the time we left the place was humming as it usually is - even mid week when we were there. And deservedly so - this is a very good restaurant. Prices are more than the chains (like nearby Prezzo) but definitely worth the extra. [Oct 09]

This Italian restaurant was busy for a Sunday night, which is always a good sign. The ceilings are fairly low and as well as being quite open plan means that it does get very noisy when busy. The food was good and freshly made, with reasonable portion sizes. The house red was a bit rough. The Cabernet Sauvignon was fairly decent though. The service was friendly, a good balance of being attentive but not over the top. They did not turn their noses up at my request for tap water, which is always a plus in my book. [Jan 09]