King’s Cross can seem a little impersonal and alienating at times, with so many people in such a hurry to get around. If you’re needing a respite from the hustle and bustle, an oasis of calm and friendliness in the centre of London, then you need Casa Mamma. Their name, if you haven’t guessed, means Mum’s House, and they’ve been going since 1993, a testament to Franco and his team’s dedication to creating a family atmosphere and a traditional Italian welcome. Their menu is packed with the classics of the genre: antipasti to start, soups and salads, pasta, gnocchi and risotto to follow and a range of fish, meat and vegetarian dishes as main courses. We’d plump for a grilled river trout with rosemary and garlic dressing or a steak flamed in brandy, wine and peppercorns. You can find them on Gray’s Inn Road in the very centre of London, and remember to book ahead – they’re very popular with locals and will get busy from time to time!