If you want a posh pizza or fancy splashing out on some handmade pasta then look no further than this swish restaurant.

Piccolino's offers Nottingham some Italian style but it comes at a price.

The Venue
Amid the hustle and bustle of the trendy Lace Market area is Piccolino’s restaurant and bar. It's part of a chain, but don't let that put you off as the food, service and atmosphere is excellent.

It's a far cry from traditional Italian restaurants, with a large bar area, wooden floors and swish decor. If you’re looking for a cosy meal for two or an alfresco snack, Piccolino's has it all. The quality is good, but the prices can be steep.

The People
Piccolino’s attracts a wide variety of diners from young groups to anniversary couples. Everyone is made welcome by the pleasant and helpful staff who gladly offer recommendations.

The kitchen is open so you can view your food being cooked, which is always comforting. Seating is a little too close together, which is okay until your bored neighbours start listening in on your conversation.

The Food
The variety of food served is amazing, from traditional pizzas and pasta dishes, to mouthwatering seafood skewers served on saffron rice (£18.95). Vegetarians get an unusually large choice, which is always welcome but not always seen.

A good selection of bread is served from their own wood stone oven in the kitchen and is still warm when you dip it into a mix of olive oil and balsamic vinegar.

Pasta dishes such as the carbonara cost £9.25, while a spicy sausage pizza with roasted red pepper, tomato, mozzarella and chilli costs £8.15, and salads are around the £9 mark.

The Drink
The wine list is substantial enough to please the pickiest drinker, with the majority of the bottles priced between £17 and £27. If you’re familiar with Italian wine, you’ll absolutely love the options here. A small recommended list is also available, as are monthly specials, and there's a good assortment of soft drinks.

The Last Word
This isn’t the place for the cheapest Italian meal in Nottingham, but it is probably the tastiest. Take advantage of the summer months at Piccolino’s and dine outside, hopefully in the sunshine, while absorbing the Lace Market buzz.

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