Il Giardino

I went here last night on a whim with my bestie. Luckily we came just before the dinner rush (about 6.30-7pm) and got seated right away! This place is very busy and often turns people without reservations away cause it's too packed so I'd say book to avoid disappointment. SERVICE: Lots of reviews here talk about the wait, but please remember this is a small place with a small staff (2 kitchen staff and 1 waitstaff when I went) so yes there will be a bit of a wait BUT the service with this small staff is impeccable. The young man serving us last night was SO lovely, polite, and quick despite how packed it was. Love him. FOOD N DRINK: We got 2 limoncello and raspberry drinks which were DELICIOUS. Nice strength to them, very well presented in very gorgeous glasses. We got the tagliatelle emiliana and tagliatelle carbonara and I have to say this is some of the best pasta I've eaten outside of Italy. V flavoursome, not sickly, quality ingredients and beautifully presented. Portions are moderate. Left us room for dessert (tiramisu and torte de nonna which were both DELICIOUS) and we didn't feel sick after. Great selection of wines, drinks, and alcoholic coffees that we want to try when we come back! Got given a mint w our bill which was a nice touch haha. ATMOSPHERE: Beautiful family-friendly restaurant, great villa-style interior and very comfy chairs! Not too crowded and easy to move around. Toilets were very clean. It was very upbeat with music at the perfect volume and you don't have to shout over it. OVERALL: An absolutely gorgeous little restaurant which is justifiably always busy. We were made to feel very welcome and valued and we had a great time. We can't wait to return! Please don't hesitate to book. We were smoking outside afterwards and saw some ladies wondering whether to go in and we honestly said go in, it's great!!

It is a lovely, cosy family style restaurant in the heart of buzzing Peckham. As their website states: they've been in Peckham since 1987. Current owner, Eduardo, was trained in Sardinian cuisine for ten years, before taking on the restaurant and becoming head chef. His cooking style is a product of working for the Sardinian founder of Il Giardino, his experience in the kitchens of different Italian restaurants, and his Peruvian background, creating a unique fusion cuisine. All in all, the food is always cooked perfectly. I love their seafood and fish dishes! However, don't take my word for it, come and try yourself :)