Carluccio's

great italian food. made to feel very welcome.
lovely surroundings

Myself and Keith were wandering around Oxford Street late at night and we hadn't eaten dinner. Carluccios was the only place around that was still serving. I've avoided it in the past as the food in chain restaurants is usually a let-down. We just had a plate of pasta each and both were fantastic. The pasta was cooked perfectly and there was so much flavour packed onto each plate.

Keith had the penne giardiniera which is penne pasta with chilli, courgette and spinach balls. The balls were wonderfully cheesy and a refreshing change from the usual pasta accompaniments. I had a classic spaghetti vongole and I had no complaints (well maybe just that keith's dish was nicer than mine!). There were plenty of clams and the pasta was well seasoned. I haven't been back again so I don't know whether the other food is any good but the pasta can't be faulted. Great meal.

Possibly the best Italian food in London. The dishes come from a number of different regions around Italy, the food is fresh, the taste unbeatable. The service is always good, even when they're busy. But it can get a bit crowded, although that adds to the bistro atomsphere. Try the penne giardinera, their most popular dish. Pasta with fried vegetable balls and vegetable sauce.

This is a nice smart restaurant which is less expensive than it looks. It is in a great location as you can sit outside when it's dry in the square or go downstairs where it's more bar-like. It's popular with young professionals in the evening and ladies who lunch during the day. The pastas are particular good – really fresh and not overcooked. And there's a particularly good choice for vegetarians. Coffees and breakfast are great too. Everything tastes very fresh and Italian. The staff have always been friendly although the restaurant can get busy so it might not be one to one.

I went there on 29th August - its okay.

Bread was good, my pasta was okay, and my side dish of spinach was also good. Atmosphere was also okay, cafe like. Service was good - i would go again.

Ps - their hot chocolate is nice!