Zizzi

My local Zizzis are in Twickenham and Richmond and I have been to branches in central London. I have been to them on many occasions as they are one of those restaurants where there is something for everyone – even moody teenagers and picky kids. They also manage to cover all sorts of occasions – a fast social or business lunch, a relaxed informal dinner for couples or girls dining out or even for larger groups. One size fits all.

Starters are fresh and tasty. Favourites include mozzarella, tomatoes and avocado salad (£4.95), antipasto misto (£5.95), goats cheese crostini (£4.65), tomato bruschetta (£4.35) and rocket salad (£4.65).

Main courses are from a comprehensive selection of salads, pasta, pizzas and risotto. My son adores the chicken sofia pizza (£8.45) and my daughter always has lasagne (which they are happy to put on a cold plate for kids - £8.50). Garfield girl!

My personal favourite has to be the piccante calzone (£8.95). Calzone is a folded over pizza – so it looks a bit like a big pasty. It comes with a salad garnish so you might want to think about a side salad if you have no starter. And piccante has a spicy kick to its moist, meaty contents. My vegetarian friends like the salmon calzone (£9.25) a lot too. I am also rather partial to spaghetti polpette (£8.50) which are classic Italian meatballs. But take care with the sauce splashes on your clothes.

It’s tasty, plentiful food in a pleasant and relaxed environment. The Richmond branch has really nice stacked wood décor and the Twickenham branch has a light, airy feel about the place – European and modern but still warm and inviting. A reliable choice that has something to offer everyone. Gets my vote.