TRATTORIA DA VINCI

BEST FOR Earthy Italian home cooking. FOOD This Italian trattoria is run with passion by Steve and Leah Balleta. Steve mans the pizza oven in the centre of the restaurant, roasting pork loin with crackling or lamb shank with crisp potatoes. Fresh fish is cooked to perfection in the pizza oven. Pasta is made on the premises and the pizza is wonderfully crisp. The vegetable platter, marinated in vinaigrette, comes served with cheese and olives and is a delight. Specials include fresh seafood paella and crumbed pork with creamy mushroom sauce. Regulars pace themselves to save room for espresso cake with almond meringue and Frangelico cream. DRINKS The wine list is small, offering wine by the glass or carafe. SERVICE The servers are efficient and welcoming. AMBIENCE The pizza oven is central to the cosy interior, with maps of Italy painted on the walls. The outside pavement under an awning offers cool summer dining. (CP)