Restaurants

Pizzaphiles continue to disagree on the subject of Strada. When the brand first came on the scene, the contemporary, hand-stretched, wood-burning schtick earned the burgeoning chain many fans. Detractors, however, see a case of the emperors new clothes about the concept, allying it with Stradas wholehearted embracing of trendy areas such as Islington, Marylebone and Exmouth Market. Weve had some disappointments in the past, but our last Strada meal was excellent: fresh and flavoursome Italian ingredients enhanced by perfectly cooked spaghetti and splendid breads and pizzas. Theres a buzz in this Festival Hall branch thats missing from some of the quieter venues, but the staff were unruffled by a busy Sunday lunch influx. We continue to applaud Strada for its free chilled, bottled and filtered water on every table.

Time Out Eating & Drinking Guide 2008