Tentazioni

OMG this really is a special place to go – the lunch menu is just sooo fab and the price is really cool. But the food and service were the best ever. I am going back there time and time again. Real Italian food with real Italian ingredients served by great staff makes Tentazioni a very memorable occasion

Our visit to Tentazioni was for a special occasion with friends and as a new local I was curious to take my companions to this locally revered venue. On first observation the interior appears impressive, with its ample artwork and warm atmosphere. Staff too carry this warmth with friendly, polite and jovial service, all of which goes to making a great dining experience.

The menu is ample and diverse with a wide range of classic and contemporary Italian dishes to suit everyone, including a good selection of vegetarian and seafood dishes. After a refreshing and well balanced starter of asparagus soup with duck egg and truffle, I opted for scallops served with 24 carat gold timbales (risotto cakes) – this, after much debate between three other mains that also took my fancy. My fellow diners had the same dilemma, but we settled for our choices with the help of our efficient waiter. The main was not as impressive as the mouthwatering description on the menu and unfortunately the scallops were a tad bit tougher than I'd liked, but the composition was indeed laudable as was the same for the rest of the dishes on the table.

Standards are high and service is swift, with fresh and seasonal ingredients at the ready (the menu has already changed since my visit in early August). Certainly one for locals who fancy a break from the kitchen or, those visiting Tower Bridge/Shad Thames and looking to get away from the hum drum of restaurant chains on the riverfront.

Been back twice in the last week – the new pasta menu is stunning.

SquareMeal ratings are usually spot on but missed the mark with Tentazioni. Food was adequate. Meat platter starter & tiramisu dessert were good, but main meals not particularly flavorful or fresh. Wine list not up to par. Service was particularly poor – had to ask for bread, olive oil, a serrated knife for cutting meat, no salt or pepper on table.

We were late, but they were very understanding about this and service was polite and friendly although we did have to ask for the bill twice. Good menu with a wide selection of dishes at reasonable prices – the fillet of beef was excellent. Only downside – the toilets are grim and don't fit with the high standards elsewhere in the venue