Carnevale

About the size of your average newsagent, pint-sized Carnevale is nevertheless a real draw for City veggies – so arrive early or be prepared to find a space in the eight-seater alfresco/
conservatory area out back. The robust Mediterranean menu keeps it seasonal, opening with the likes of fried haloumi, baby spinach & roasted tomatoes or roasted Jerusalem artichoke & pumpkin salad, before moving on to breaded aubergine stuffed with smoked mozzarella & ricotta (accompanied by romesco sauce & green beans) or the day’s risotto (perhaps loaded with butternut squash, roasted wild garlic & saffron). There’s always a great-value, three-course set menu, too (£13.50). The wholly organic wine list merits a serious look, & it’s also worth eyeing up the fabulous array of deli products & hampers on your way out.