Sometimes, ‘no surprises’ is just what you want from a restaurant, and Al Dente offers just that. With the fourth iteration of their popular restaurant, the team has its formula figured out: quality authentic pasta at a relatively low price - a concept which Al Dente seems to have proven considering how busy the Islington branch is on a weekday evening.
Just across from Angel station, Al Dente finds its place between the usual high street chains as one of the few restaurants serving authentic Italian food. With its minimal interiors, the atmosphere of Al Dente is not particularly uptight as pop music sets the mood for this restaurant overwhelmingly attended by young professionals.
Eating at Al Dente is a smooth experience. The staff is in large part responsible for this and the friendly atmosphere, as they gently talk us through the menu, explaining some of the lesser known items. The wine list is equally affordable and varied, with lots of good examples of Italian winemaking available by the glass as well.
Before the main event, a glass of a deep and fruity Montepulciano goes well with the burrata and parma ham we have to start. With this, a selection of tasty little arancini, filled with cacio e pepe, amatriciana and beef ragu. Arancini are often a little heavy, but these are crisp and light, perfect for a starter to a meal which promises plenty of cheese, sauce and dough.
Al Dente understands that its trade is in simple, tried-and-tested dishes and never gets too far out of its lane. Pumpkin and pecorino ravioli with sage continues the clear trend of well balanced cooking, where ingredients work together seamlessly. The restaurant lives up to its name with this one, it’s hard to imagine ravioli with a more perfect texture. The same is true for the gnocchi alla Sorrentina (a sauce of mozzarella, basil and tomato), which truly melt in your mouth.
A giant cream-filled cannolo and a surprisingly light tiramisu bring home the message. Al Dente delivers on its promise of no frill, simple pasta dishes with decent pricing - a more than welcome addition to Islington’s restaurant scene.