THIS popular Italian restaurant, with its soft lighting, modern decor and busy, semi-open kitchen does not just offer a sophisticated dining experience; boasting an extensive cocktail list it’s a good place to start or even spend a night out too.

It was the perfect venue for a long overdue catch-up with friends and unwind on a Friday night after a busy week at work.

Having arrived hungry, we started by sharing a garlic bread with garlic and basil (£4.95).

By the time that had been demolished our attentive waitress was ready to bring over our mains.

Two of us opted for Penne - with spicy sausage, tomato and red peppers (£9.95), one immediately homed in on the Ravioli (£13.50) - with white crab, chilli, lemon and parsley, while the other - the only non-meat eater chose the butternut squash, hazelnuts and sage (£10.75).

My only criticism is the shortage of vegetarian dishes among the mains.

The starter menu has a good range, but when it comes to pizza and pasta dishes it appears a little limited.

The ravioli looked smaller in portion size compared to the fiery penne serving, but I was assured that, with ample filling, it was both filling and delicious.

No room for pudding, but we’d already set out heart on liquid refreshment with cosmopolitans and blackberry martinis (each £7.50) all round.

It’s not often I dress up for dinner, but there’s something about Piccolinos that makes you want to make the effort.

The beauty of this relaxed restaurant is, you don’t feel like you have to, and you don’t look out of place if you don’t.

VERDICT

  • Food: 8
  • Drink: 10
  • Service: 7
  • Atmosphere: 10
  • Value: 9