"Ciao Bella is a firm favourite amongst my friends and family, ensuring countless return visits. This gem is located on the very trendy Lambs Conduit Street and is a short walk from Russell Square station. Be sure to book a table in advance on the weekends, as it's always very busy. Part of Ciao Bella's charm lies in it's warm and authentic Italian atmosphere. The walls are decorated with Fellini posters, paintings of legendary Italian stars such as Sophia Loren and jazz instruments and the windows are lined with rows and rows of wine bottles which you may select for your meal. All the waiters speak Italian with a brilliant knowledge of Italian cuisine so if you have any questions about the menu do not hesitate to ask. A lively and charismatic piano player also plays (and occasionally sings) in the main room on weekends, adding even more of an unique and authentic feel to your dining experience. Tables are packed quite closely together, and the restaurants popularity means that it is constantly bustling. One of Ciao Bella's only down sides has to be the slightly claustrophobic downstairs seating, that lacks the same atmosphere as upstairs. This is why it's best to book in advance to secure the perfect table for your party, preferably near the piano. There are also several tables outside which are nice for a relaxed summer evening but can seem considerably less inviting in the winter months. If you arrive hungry but have to wait for other guests you needn't suffer. Each table is offered complimentary olives, Parmesan chunks and bread sticks, a rarity in most central London restaurants in which you are often charged for bread with your meal. The menu is extensive but mainly consists of traditional Italian dishes, so if you are a pizza or pasta lover you are definitely in the right place! The Spaghetti al Cartoccio seems to be one of the restaurants most popular dishes, a mouth watering seafood spaghetti that is served in a grease proof paper bag straight onto your plate. I attempt to be more creative with my choice each time I dine but the Cartoccio or Calzone pizza often win. The desert options are also mainly but not exclusively traditional Italian dishes such as Tiramisu or Panna Cotta and are always fun to enjoy with a shot or two of limoncello if you are celebrating."
