Artigiano

We must have been here at least half a dozen times, so that in itself shows we like it. In the winter it's warm and welcoming, in summer, when you can sit by the glass front opened up - it's like having dinner outside. it's quite smart with proper tablecloths and decent glassware, but not at all stuffy. On our last visit the other day we had courgette and aubergine salad with mozzarella, and beef bresaola with horseradish, asparagus and Parmesan, and then as usual we chose fish - the grilled whole sea bass for two to share, plus a couple of side dishes of rosemary potatoes and green beans. This is familiar Italian food with a few modern updates and makes a good dinner with a decent bottle of wine. We're fortunate that we can walk to it, the staff are always very pleasant and for us, it's a valued local restaurant.

We had another lovely evening at Artegiano on Friday night. But it was even more special this time because on Friday nights they have live jazz! It was the perfect compliment to their fantastic food and added to the atmosphere. I had the burata to start, which was yummy and creamy, and the risotto with lobster and scallops -- delicious. I highly recommend Artegiano. Definitely a Belsize local not to miss.

Remarkable. For a location bristling with potential, the restaurant under delivers at an exorbitant price. The appetizer of crab and lobster in a cream tamable was overwhelmed by mustard to make it inedible. The veal milanese was tough, over breaded and room temperature, with little character or texture. They were out of bread at 9PM. All this for £100. A real shame.

I went to Artigiano on the 50% a la carte deal which you can get on Toptable or Squaremeal and it was excellent value. There was a great selection on the menu, pasta, meat, fish etc and the place was packed out. The venue itself is in a small mews area of Belsize Park so i dont think its as easy for those who dont drive. The food was great though – though my friend did find a small squid piece in her salad (she didnt order this and she was allergic! Also got charged twice for drinks. However i think this is a mistake which could have happened in any restaurant. I ended up having ravioli with cream cheese stuffing and a main of lamb cutlets. The meals dont come with sides so you have to order that on top. Both meals were good though portions seemed a decent size. My friend had buffalo mozarella and a main of breaded chicken. Everything was extremely tasty. Anyhow – the final bill for two people having three courses each plus a drink came to £45, so £23 each and i though that was excellent value. Ill definitely be going back – a great ‘neighbourhood’ haunt which felt cosy and stylish.

Needing a spot to get a bite for lunch in the north west, we found Artigiano on this website and cross-checked elsewhere as Squaremeal reviewers were lacking in number. On a Winter’s day, with few punters, it was a little cold (both temperature and décor having lots of glass/light tiled floor and cool tones generally). But when busier, and especially at night, I am sure it turns into something more vibrant with LED’s adding colourful warmth to the atmosphere. Effort in styling achieved by not insignificant investment was evident. Significant effort was also evident from the generously plated fare in what I would describe as freshly prepared, unfrilled, and reasonably priced meals (wines likewise). All served with good spirit, it seemed to be a venue that has the hallmark of a sound neighbourhood eatery.