Con Gusto

Picture a house hardly bigger than gatekeeper huts in Hyde Park - or better yet, igloos. When Con Gusto first opened in the Royal Arsenal, I had the same thoughts as probably about 90% of locals - how the hell can you fit a restaurant in that tiny space?

Very easily, as it turns out. Con Gusto is compact excellence. Placed in a space that is truly somewhat (although not much) bigger on the inside than it looks on the outside, this small Italian packs a punch for foodies and lovers of good quality. A carefully vetted menu and wine list, as well as drinks menu come with small tables - I think the restaurant seats about 20 people? Either way, they do a great job at impressing with starters such as tuna carpaccio or freshly torn burrata, and mains such as squid ink spaghetti or home-made melt-in-your mouth gnocchi.

I'm not big on pasta, but I licked my plate clean after that gnocchi - instead of the usual bulky and dry bits of largely potato-made dough, you get small, soft pillows of fresh pasta drenched in a fresh tomato sauce and grated parmesan. The squid ink spaghetti doesn't make a mess and comes accompanied with delicious prawns, a perfect portion and a feast for the eyes.

Probably not your every-day eatery based on prices, but this restaurant really makes any occasion special. It feels like attending a secret supper club or a distant friend's fancy dinner party. Oh, and the wine is excellent!

Two minor things I would improve: not major, but if it was me, I'd have staff wear some kind of uniform, even if it's just a black outfit. I think that would match well with the place's vibe. And otherwise, they need to up their music game from elevator-smooth jazz to something better.

But otherwise, 10/10, can't wait to visit again!