The Olive Garden

A reliable Southfields local, Olive Garden continues to please its regulars with solid trattoria staples. It’s a congenial spot in light, conservatory-like premises. The kitchen leaves innovation to others, instead sending out generous platters of salume, melanzane parmigiana & bruschetta to start, & then classic pastas & ‘excellent’ pizzas to follow. Likewise, desserts consist of favourites such as tiramisu & pannacotta. The food, teamed with the sort of personal service that comes from being owner-run, has won the restaurant a deserved local following of mums at lunchtime, couples & friends in search of an easy dinner in the evening, & families come the weekend. Also at 46-48 Coombe Lane, Raynes Park SW20 0LA, where the adjacent deli is popular with people in search of sandwiches & takeaway lasagne.