Caffe Caldesi

Though we had not booked on a Saturday night, turning into Marylebone Lane and parking up to see which of the restaurants which the this quaint street might suit us, we were pleasantly surprised to find that Caffe Caldesi was able to accommodate us immediately with a table.

Though it was pretty full and despite its sufficiently spacious dining areas both upstairs and downstairs, the restaurant is both busy and quiet enough for decent conversation, which is what happened on this evening as we had much to discuss both business and pleasure.

There was a basket of bread which we promptly finished together with the olive oil and balsamic vinegar, before starting on a starter of grilled vegetables which we shared. For mains we chose lamb chops and steak which were both done medium rare and well. Nothing extraordinary though our taste buds seemed to be sufficiently satiated by the time we came to desserts which we passed on, and instead just ordered fresh mint tea.

So, though we did not plan and prebook dinner as such, the end result was that we were pleased with having taken the impromptu plunge on a Saturday evening out in the neighbourhood.

This was the worst italian food I've ever had, such poor quality, terrible service and definitely over priced – such a rip-off! Do not recommend it at all!

Not the first time I have been. We dined upstairs, more formal and not so much fun. It serves Tuscan fare, which is good if you haven't eaten for a while but not so good if, like my lovely wife, you want something that won't lie heavy in your tum. The lighting isn’t good, reading the menu required extra candle light. Spaghetti with crab and cherry tomatoes very good, the antipasti that went before was good although I always feel a bit cheated when Italian spam – the one beginning with “M” – is part of the deal. Mostly Italian wine list, nothing wrong with that, Chianti served in a simple but very elegant decanter. Beautiful smooth espresso that hit the spot immediately. Good for old friends and family.

Caffe Caldesi is actually two restaurants. Upstairs is more formal with linen table cloths and you need to book, downstairs more simple with plain wooden tables ans you can often walk in and get a table. However the food in both is absolutely wonderful. If you want a quiet meal go upstairs but for a more informal and relaxed meal or even just a drink then the ground floor is the place to be.

The antipasti platter which is served in both is just to die for, perfect in every way form its presentation on a wooden platter to the sublime mix of parma ham, salami, olives and wonderful home made bread to mop up the olive oil drizzled on top. The caprese salad has the best buffalo mozarella you will ever taste outside of Italy! It is served with roasted tomatoes and basil. Two great starters that never fail to please.

The menu changes all the time, but there is always a choice of pasta, risotto and maybe gnocchi all served with great sauces ranging from lamb ragu to a simple tomato sauce. Just when you think you have no more room left you then have a tempting choice of meat and fish dishes.

I can't comment on any of the desserts because we have never in all the times we have been to the restaurant managed to get that far!

Authentic Italian food, simply and beautifully cooked and served – what could be better?