Whether you’re preferable to a crispy pizza, creamy pasta or rich risotto, SoGlos has found 8 of the best Italian- inspired menus to try in Gloucestershire.
1. Toni's Kitchen
Opened in July 2018 by the founders of the hugely popular Fat Toni’s Pizzeria, Toni’s Kitchen offers the essence of Italy in Stroud. Using only the best quality ingredients, the concept sees Italian roots meet French-style refinement – an irresistible combination!
The menu is the thing of Italian dreams, starting with the antipasti which delivers a plate of artisan-cured Italian and Spanish salami. Onto the Primi course, dishes include Parma ham croquettes, polenta chips, chargrilled marinated vegetables, and salt cod cheek croquettes.
The Secondi course promises more delicious temptation, such as tagliatelle with San Marzano tomato and basil sauce; lobster and salmon ravioli with creamed leeks, spinach and nasturtium; and Maltagliati pasta with aubergine caponata and rosemary pangritata. With a traditional tiramisu to finish, indulge in a three-course meal at the Italian restaurant.
2. Primavera Ristorante
Located in the Montpellier area of Cheltenham, Primavera Ristorante serves classic Italian dishes while using local suppliers; all of its produce is bought within 40 miles of the town, promising food that’s made from quality, fresh ingredients.
Spanning lunch and dinner, the menus allow for a slice of Italy in the heart of Cheltenham. From bruschetta, arancini and cannelloni, to lasagne, risotto and Margherita pizza, there’s a wealth of delicious choice for diners.
3. L'Anatra Italian Kitchen
Situated inside Chester House Hotel, L’Anatra Italian Kitchen provides an Italian dining destination in Bourton-on-the-Water. With meals created from authentic ingredients, expect Italian cooking at its best.
Menu highlights include homemade minestrone soup with home-baked ciabatta; spaghetti carbonara with Parmesan, smoked pancetta and egg; risotto verde with basil, pea, broccoli and courgette; and calzone with buffalo mozzarella, mushroom, ham, salami, pancetta and chilli.
4. Zitto e Mangia
For a tasty Italian meal in Tewkesbury, head to Zitto e Mangia, a family-run restaurant where the food is freshly prepared by a team of talented Italian chefs.
Encompassing antipasti, salads, pasta, risotto, meat, fish and pizza, the authentic menu offers something for all tastes, whether you’re hankering for a Napoli pizza, four-cheese risotto, or classic spaghetti Bolognese.
5. Topoly's
Topoly’s Italian Restaurant in Gloucester has been delighting foodies with top quality, authentic Italian food for over 20 years; expect a relaxed atmosphere, impressive menu and heaps of enticing food choice.
The menu includes Tagliatelle Topoly’s with ham, mushrooms, tomatoes, cream, béchamel sauce, white wine, mixed herbs and parsley; Risotto Con Gamberi with prawns, chilli, cream, asparagus, fresh parsley and white wine; and Pesce Spada grilled swordfish.
6. Gianni's Restaurant
Nestled in the heart of Cheltenham, Gianni’s Restaurant is a long-established eatery that proves ever-popular with foodies, with its Italian chefs cooking up traditional dishes.
Browsing the menu is sure to whet diners’ appetites, with main courses including Penne Alla Gianni with mushrooms, chicken and mozzarella in a tomato and cream sauce; Spaghetti Marinara cooked with shellfish in tomato sauce; and Filetto Grigliato, chargrilled fillet steak.
7. Piazza Fontana
Enjoy a taste of Italy in Cirencester, where Piazza Fontana lies in the centre of town. From hearty plates of pasta to cheesy pizza, it’s the ideal destination to satisfy those cravings.
Expect tempting sides such as bruschetta, ciabatta, and focaccia; and main meals such as cannelloni, penne pasta, Margherita pizza, and carbonara linguine.
8. The Olive Tree
Head to The Olive Tree in Nailsworth, a Mediterranean restaurant and pizzeria which offers a welcoming atmosphere and enticing menu that’s ideal for a light lunch or dinner.
Expect fantastic flavours and heaps of choice, with highlights including garlic focaccia with cheese; smoked salmon linguine; The Olive Tree pizza with goat’s cheese, caramelised red onion and fresh spinach; and roasted stuffed aubergine.