I THINK if I was forced to choose, I would have to put Italian restaurants at the top of my list when it comes to places to dine.

There is just something about the relaxed atmosphere and the simple nature of the food which is instantly appealing.

Perhaps it was because we went during the week but our trip to Alghero's wasn't the memorable experience we had been looking forward to.

If anything we came away feeling a little flat after a meal that can only be described as average.

After much deliberation I went for the mozzarella carroza for starter followed by penne arrabiata.

The better half chose melon in port to start and then a starter-sized portion of linguini pescatore.

My starter was mozzarella with anchovies served between bread which has been lightly deep fried.

I found there was a distinct lack of anchovies and the bread was too well done for my liking.

The melon however got the thumbs up.

On to the main course, again my pasta dish was lacking in oomph.

The arrabiata sauce should be fiery but I found it a little watery and lacking in heat.

The pasta itself was excellently cooked.

Having left room for pudding I chose the blackcurrant cheesecake while the better half went for her favourite desert, the tiramisu.

Both sweets were really disappointing and sadly bland.

A word too about the service. We found that our plates were whipped away rather too quickly.

When you're spending £37.90 for a three-course meal for two you don't expect to be finished within an hour.

FOOD 5 DRINK 8 SERVICE 5 ATMOSPHERE 6 VALUE 6

Ristorante Alghero is on Bolton Road, Withnell