The Italian Garden

Set in the beautiful Cumbrian landscape, the town of Kirby Lonsdale is a daytripper’s dream, attracting people from Lancaster and beyond to take in sights such as the Devil’s Bridge, a medieval span over the River Lune. Kirby Lonsdale is also home to some very fine restaurants, among which The Italian Garden stands out for its commitment to rustic regional Italian cuisine. By day The Italian Garden operates as a cafe, keeping those strolling down the Main Street in good espresso and light meals. By night, the cafe blooms into a restaurant specialising on traditional Italian dishes given a contemporary update.

Proper Italian coffee, frappes, milkshakes and juices are among the refreshments served by The Italian Garden by day, alongside a menu offering breakfast and brunch, cold and hot sandwiches and light meals. Those along Kirby Lonsdale’s Main Street with bigger appetites can take advantage of traditional Italian pizza and main courses such as classic spaghetti Bolognese or fresh seafood platters to share. It’s this finely curated offering that those heading north from Lancaster for a day in the country like to order.

Come the evening, Kirby Lonsdale locals make The Italian Garden their own, knowing that every dish served at this Italian restaurant uses locally-sourced produce wherever possible. Less accessible to Lancaster and Kendal residents, The Italian Garden is a true local spot when the kitchen brings out the classically-structured evening menus. Marinated olives, wild mushrooms served on toasted ciabatta with garlic and parmesan, baby spinach and truffle oil, beef Carpaccio and pan-seared pigeon breast are just for starters. Family-favourite pizzas are also on the menu, but it’s main courses like basil-crusted salmon or the vegetarian roasted butternut squash filo tart, as well as traditional Italian pasta dishes, that are the stars of the show.