London diners with an hankering for Italy’s carb-heavy, comfort-rich food are in the right place. Old London’s Road’s Little Italy in Kingston-upon-Thames focus on serving the familiar with aplomb. Expect generous portions of classic Italian favourites – mostly pizza and pasta – from their relaxed dining room. Of course, the food from the bel paese isn’t entirely about pizze e paste, in fact the menu at Little Italy reflects this. The menu here includes many dishes that Italian cuisine aficionados would call secondi piatti, meats and fish that taste like nonna used to make.

Kingston-upon-Thames’ dining scene is perhaps unfairly overlooked in favour of London’s, owing to the Kingston’s proximity to the capital. In Old London Road’s Little Italy, Kingston-upon-Thames locals can be rightly proud of their avowedly local slice of Italian food and dining. Little Italy positions itself within the Italian tradition of trattorie (that is, casual eateries), rather than the most upmarket ristoranti and this formula is paying dividends. Guests are returning again and again for great food, served simply and in generous portions. Salute!