or you could say Refreshingly Simple. Last year, we stumbled on this place and stopped for pizza al fresco which we enjoyed. Very recently remembering this tucked away behind Regent Street, we asked to dine inside. I was seated opposite shelves laden with enticing breads and jars of colourful preserved goods on the top shelf, otherwise you could feast the eye on cured meats hanging near the business end. Eating out later meant that I hoped for something healthy-ish, and tasty. To my delight, minestrone fitted my desire precisely, being a wholesome, fully-flavoured tomato and veg soup topped with bright green (obviously freshly made) pesto. I was told it was small, but it was generous enough for me especially with the breads and oil. Pizza and a fleshy tomato and basil salad also apparently matched expectations set first time around. 2 delightful young ladies on one side of us seemed equally satisfied as did a table of 10 on the other.
Next time, I will not skip main and I look forward to sampling fish or meat, or one of the many risottos or pasta dishes on offer, which could be modern or more trad' style.
Although service was a serious matter, it was delivered in an aptly light-hearted, enthusiastic and efficient way. Wines by the glass were perfectly good and coffee with chocs fitted the ‘bill’, on the subject of which we thought good value. A vibrant and refreshing experience all round.