I WENT to Mangiamo for my birthday — and not just because I wanted the waiter to walk out with a sparkler to the “Hey, Hey, Baby... Ooh... Ahh...” song.

When there’s a group of you, service is good, it’s family-friendly and there’s usually a lively atmosphere.

The special offers looked great and I couldn’t believe the offers that apply every night except Saturday — two courses for £9.99 or three for £12.99!

With a choice of seven starters, I ordered a Trio Bruschetta; three slices of toasted bread, all topped with fresh marinated tomatoes, one with feta cheese, one with goat’s cheese.

The bruschetta was a good choice, freshly served with a side salad it was very tasty bargain.

With the main course, if you’re taking advantage of the special offer, you can choose any dish from the a la carte pizza or pasta menu. I went for Penne Casanostra, served with prawns, spinach and chilli in a tomato sauce. The usual price of this dish alone is £9.50.

I was expecting a small portion but I couldn’t have beene more wrong when a generous-sized dish.

The prawns weren’t huge but there were lots of them, served piping hot. We all had our dishes delivered at the same time with freshly-made garlic bread.

For those who are feeling a little more hungry, there’s an option to upgrade to steak or fish, adding an extra £3.99.

The wine menu is varied, offering house red and white by the litre or glass. Two large glasses of Pinot Grigio managed to quench my thirst.

Mangiamo is perfect for groups as well as those wanting a meal for two.

VERDICT

  • Food: 9
  • Drink: 9
  • Service: 9
  • Atmosphere: 9
  • Value: 9