If you want authentic Italian food at reasonable prices in a warm and welcoming atmosphere, then head along to Bella Italia in Huntingdon.

My guest and I had a table booked for early evening and at this time there was a mixture of business men and women, families, and a children’s birthday party at nearby tables. Always a good sign about choice and price, I believe, when it is obvious that a restaurant appeals to a broad section of people. The staff were attentive, knowledgeable about the menu, and we were served drinks within minutes of arriving.

My guest chose the starter, a garlic and cheese bread, which was delicious, so much so, my mouth waters every time I think about it. The menu offers nibbles, from £2.95, starters, from £4.45 and includes tempura prawns and calamari, and there is a delicious-looking sharing platter as well as a huge selection of main courses. As you would expect, most of the menu is Italian fare, and includes pizzas, a good choice of pasta and seafood and salads, but there is also ribs, steak and burgers.

I had the carbonana for my mains choice, which was topped with some lovely crispy pancetta, which was all cooked to perfection. My guest ordered the chicken Pollo Bianco pizza, which was huge. I should point out that my guest was my nine-year-old granddaughter, and although she wanted chicken on her pizza, she definitely didn’t want anything green to accompany the meat. The staff listened patiently and made sure her pizza was made to order and without the offending fennel,

During a visit to the ladies, we both admired the surroundings which reflect the Italian lifestyle and culture with black and white photographs and even a scooter on the wall. How nice to take in a little bit of Italy on our way back from the loo. The restaurant has a real homely feel and is also spotlessly clean.

We ordered a trio of desserts in shot glasses, at £5.25, but you can have all five at £7.95, and these were scrumptious. What a clever idea to be able to have more than one dessert as it is always impossible to choose just one, and the portion sizes were perfect.

I finished off with coffee and the left-over pizza was boxed up so we could take it home with us.

We admired the Gelato cart on the way out and went back for another look a the scooter and said goodbye to our wonderfully friendly waitress. All in all, a delightful evening.