italiankitchenhas a very cosy, homey feel about it. on entry we were asked to wait on a comfortable and striking red couch while our table was cleared. this was a great change from having to hang around awkwardly close to other diners while waiting. the atmosphere was buzzing as the place was very busy (cycle tour weekend) but it wasn't overpoweringly loud and we could hear each other talk.
the service started off slow but it was totally understandable as we arrived close to the end of what seemed to have been a very busy night for them. the waiter was, however, extremely friendly and knowledgable of the food.
the food has a home-cooked essence to it and can be described as smart comfort food. the portions are huge!
both of us had their chorizo and chicken risotto, which was a special for the night. the dish was complemented with sun dried tomato, cream and chili. it was topped with parmesan and rocket. it was delicious! occasionally, i tasted some kind of mayonnaise which wasn't ideal but the dish as a whole made up for it.
the ice cream cake had melted, so we were offered it on the house, but nevertheless tasted like an ice cream, honeycomb and flake perfection. i can't wait to try the real deal. the chocolate shot was too sweet for us.
looking at the menu, i'd really like to try out their cheesey starter: deep fried camembert and pan-fried halloumi.
their wine list looks pretty extensive and is reasonably priced.
we went here for the convenience of it being on the entertainer app, which means that one of our main meals was free of charge. i would have been happy, however, to pay full price for a really substantial and tasty meal.
this is a lovely little gem for a cosy, relaxed meal. i'll definitely be back to try out some more of the menu.