TRUE ITALIC RUSTIC RESTAURANT

BEST FOR A gathering with family and friends. FOOD Owner-chef Luca Di Pasquale takes his Italian heritage and cuisine seriously at this rustic osteria at the foot of Bree Street. Food is carefully prepared and simply served. The compact menu of homely Italian dishes changes daily. There are generous boards of affettati (sliced Italian cured meats) to start, and no shortage of intriguing antipasti: bruschetta with octopus, capers and cherry tomatoes; silky burrata with Parma ham. Luca’s home-made pasta is sure to catch your eye. No run-of-the-mill combinations here: spaghetti could be served with swordfish, pistachio pesto and fennel bulb, or delicate gnocchi with pork fillet and saffron sauce. DRINKS An intriguing selection of wines from northern Italy, alongside a handful of local boutique cellars, plus a small selection of craft beers and cocktails. SERVICE Friendly and efficient, with Luca keeping a close eye on proceedings. AMBIENCE Unpretentious wooden tables, exposed brick walls, and candles shoved into wine bottles, with the clatter of an open kitchen on one end. (RH)