Riccardo’s, Fulham

This Tuscan style restaurant is definitely a Godsend. Its wooden window covers, sheltered al fresco dining and rustic Italian décor captures the essence of an authentic Italian restaurant. Upon entering I was greeted by warm candlelight, with single red roses on every table: it screamed romance.  There were some leftover Valentine’s decorations on the window: cheesy but I loved it.

Once we sat down we were greeted by the lovely staff and shown to our seats, and as soon as I looked at the menu I was spoilt for choice. I expected a majority of pasta and pizza dishes but was pleasantly surprised at the variety. The waitress was very knowledgeable and enthusiastic about the food and offered up many suggestions and alternatives.

For my starter I had bruschetta topped with tomatoes and home-made pesto. For someone who isn’t a tomato lover, I can now say I have been converted. It was fresh, simple and unbelievably tasty.

For my main I decided on the lamb cutlets with sautéed spinach with a side of mash (the waitress informed me that the garlic chicken was a very popular choice, but my love for lamb overruled her suggestion). The lamb was cooked to perfection: I requested medium and it was exactly that. The spinach had been sautéed in garlic which gave the dish a little kick, and the mash potatoes literally melted in my mouth. I was ‘mmm-ing’ and ‘ahhh-ing’ and making all sorts of ludicrous noises. This lamb is the definitely the show stopper. The dishes were presented with minimal garnish, which left you to focus on exactly what you came for, THE FOOD!

For me the only downside was the dessert range. It wasn’t sticky, chocolatey and gratuitous enough. I wanted to leave feeling like I had committed the ultimate dessert porn sin. That being said, I ended up with  Amaretto-soaked pancakes and ice-cream, which I concede was very tasty and fresh.

What I loved most about Riccardo’s was the simple and rustic décor. This concept was also true for the food. No props, frills or gimmicks. They just want you to love the food: mission accomplished. It was easily one of the best meals I’ve had, and the lamb is a show stopper I urge you all to visit and request. It seems like a lot of people agreed with me as on leaving the restaurant the guest book had quite a few comments about the lamb too…

Riccardo’s
126 Fulham Road
Chelsea
SW3 6HU

Tel: 020 7370 6656