Buon Appetito - Hackney

I recently visited this amazing restaurant that was recommended to me by an Italian friend. It is truly a hidden gem in Tooting. The chef serves authentic Itali... read more I recently visited this amazing restaurant that was recommended to me by an Italian friend. It is truly a hidden gem in Tooting. The chef serves authentic Italian food at reasonable prices and is happy to explain how each dish is made. I tried the aubergine for starters, even though I usually don't like it, and was pleasantly surprised. I highly recommend trying anything on the menu as you won't be disappointed. The potato croquettes were especially delicious and showed the chef's attention to detail. Despite living far away in London, the trip to this restaurant was definitely worth it. I suggest stepping out of your comfort zone and trying something different, as the food here is top-notch. Overall, it was a great dining experience and I can't wait to go back.

Firstly, the restaurant should consider changing its name to IL Parco instead of tarnishing the reputation of the previous owner, who was Sardinian and had a fa... read more Firstly, the restaurant should consider changing its name to IL Parco instead of tarnishing the reputation of the previous owner, who was Sardinian and had a fantastic establishment. Unfortunately, the current restaurant does not live up to the same standards. It is deceiving customers into thinking it still offers authentic Italian cuisine. Beware, it is the worst Italian food I have ever had. My husband mistakenly thought it was the same place and we sat down, only to realize they now have two separate menus: one serving standard pizzas and pastas, and the other offering Greek-themed dishes. After being served rubbery mussels as a starter, I quickly realized the food was not up to par. I suggested we return our order and leave, but we had already ordered pizzas and some time had passed. I held onto hope that the pizzas would be better, but unfortunately they were not. My pepperoni pizza had a thick dough, low-quality mozzarella, and tasteless pepperoni. I fail to comprehend why some restaurants serve subpar food, especially when it comes to Italian cuisine, which is already widely beloved and respected. If a restaurant specializes in Greek cuisine, they should stick to that and not attempt to replicate Italian dishes. I felt unwell after returning home.

The food was fine but not offered any dessert and bill came without asking. We were charged £4.95 each for a pint of soda and an extra £1 for lime! When I quest... read more The food was fine but not offered any dessert and bill came without asking. We were charged £4.95 each for a pint of soda and an extra £1 for lime! When I questioned this apparently it was correct. Should have had a beer!

My boyfriend and I dined at this restaurant yesterday, as we live nearby. It is located just across from the large Victoria Park, and we were lucky to be seated... read more My boyfriend and I dined at this restaurant yesterday, as we live nearby. It is located just across from the large Victoria Park, and we were lucky to be seated outside. The menu is Italian, although I am not certain if the chefs are as well. We ordered a vegetarian platter to share, which included grilled vegetables, various cheeses, and a delicious focaccia bread. The portion was quite generous, as I noticed other diners' plates were also large. For our main courses, we had mushroom and truffle spaghetti and a four cheese pizza. Initially, the pizza came with a tomato sauce base, but when I mentioned that I was expecting a white base pizza, the waiter quickly brought out a new one. The pizza was truly delicious, with a crispy and not too thin crust, as well as plenty of toppings. I left feeling pleasantly full. Overall, I really enjoyed this restaurant, with its nice decor and lovely background music. The staff were helpful, and the food was tasty and reasonably priced for London. I highly recommend this place!

We walk into the restaurant shortly after 7pm without any booking. Pleasant welcome Yes there was some seating available at the long tables, which is not someth... read more We walk into the restaurant shortly after 7pm without any booking. Pleasant welcome Yes there was some seating available at the long tables, which is not something I 've seen before in Australian restaurants. Menu 's arrived, orders taken and drinks arrived all in good time. Our entrée and mains arrived, which looked and tasted great. The waitress was pleasant and helpful, whilst all the other dinner guest appeared to be enjoying the restaurant. Having read some earlier comments, I was a bit dubious, but our evening visit was very good.