La Lanterna

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• What are these?

• Average price 2 courses:
   £8.95 (set lunch)
   £18 (evening meal)
• House wine: £12.50 per bottle

• Hitlisted
• High point: Friendly service
• Low point: Cheesy background music
• Food served: Mon-Sat noon-2.30pm, 5.30-10.30pm. Closed Sun
• Open since: 1970
• Also offers: Childrens portions, Childrens high chairs, Pre-theatre menu

The List's Eating & Drinking Guide 2008 is now in the shops.

This review is from the 2007 edition.

Tucked away below Hope Street, there is a feeling that not too much has changed at La Lanterna since the doors were first opened in the 1970s. Decorated in a charmingly traditional style, the dining room features exposed wooden beams and pictures of rustic Italian scenes. The atmosphere is relaxed and informal, with a steady loop (for better or worse) of Italian music playing. The menu assures guests that the kitchen takes pride in using 'the best local produce available' - including fresh seafood. Those wanting a treat can have scallops cooked in a rich brandy sauce, and other highlights are deep-fried tiger prawns with a sweet chilli dip. Special mention should be made of the satisfyingly wholesome tagliatelle with home-made meatballs, while risotto options include generous quantities of Italian sausage or asparagus. For dessert, a rich and nicely set panacotta is served with melted chocolate and strawberries.