WERE it not for the waft of food and the fold-up sign outside the restaurant, you could almost walk past Al Trullo without noticing it.

Which would be a shame, particularly if you like good Italian grub.

And I do, so it was fortunate my friend and I didn't miss the place when we wandered past last week.

As we walked through the doors of the restaurant, another group was just leaving, shaking the waiter's hand as they went and showering him with compliments - initial impressions were good.

That said, my friend and I then had to wait a couple of minutes before we were even acknowledged, which was too long.

Nevertheless when we were eventually seated the service was pleasant and the wine list and menus were brought over promptly.

As far as Al Trullo's menu is concerned there is plenty of variation. The pasta and pizza dishes are well priced and the steak all comes courtesy of the local butcher.

Although steak was tempting I opted for the Mama Mia - home made pasta with spinach, cheese, meatballs and chicken - whilst my friend gave in to a sirloin in a mushroom and brandy sauce.

While we waited for our meals complimentary olives and bread were brought over, along with our drinks - a pint of Peroni - which was pricy and and not chilled enough - and an orange juice.

Still, our meals arrived pronto and the verdict here was very good. The Mama Mia was rich, creamy and tasted absolutely superb, whilst my friend's steak was cooked to perfection and came out swimming in a delicious sauce with a mountain of French fries.

Despite the initial wait and warm beer, we went home very satisfied and didn't begrudge the £27.85 bill.