Mimmo La Bufala

It’s just as well portions are large here, as we enjoyed every last flavoursome bite of our meal. Mimmo La Bufala specialises in southern Italian food, with a bias towards mozzarella (of course) and fish. Daily specials might include classics such as osso buco. A starter of sautéed king prawns was deliciously fresh and juicy. Then followed a memorable pasta dish of orecchiette with fresh spinach, creamy ricotta and tangy sun-dried tomatoes – a perfect mix of complementary flavours.

The long pizza list includes all the classics as well as seasonal variations such as tomato-free ‘biancis’. We opted for ‘Mimmo’s pizza’, named after the ebullient proprietor. In true southern Italian style, its thin base was topped with juicy tomatoes, smoky provolone and melt-in-your-mouth buffalo mozzarella before being baked in a wood-fired oven. This oven links the restaurant’s two dining areas: a small but airy front room in white with shopfront-style windows, mirrors and chandeliers; and a larger, cosier space at the back with less natural light and a grand piano for occasional entertainment.

Our main gripe is the lack of wines by the glass (only house red or white), but it’s the food that is the draw.