Vittoria's is the perfect restaurant to sample a real taste of Italy. Renowned for its high level of service and fresh Italian food, book online with Vittoria's on Leith Walk and experience over 40 years of history. You can now also book online at Vittoria's on the bridge and at La Favorita too.

• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• What are these?

• House wine: £12.95 per bottle

• High point: Buzzing atmosphere
• Low point: Main courses largely made up of pasta dishes
• Food served: Mon–Sat noon–last orders 2pm, 5.30–10:30pm. Closed Sun
• Open since: 1982
• Also offers: Vegetarian options (at least 25% of main courses), Children's portions

This review appears in the The List's Eating & Drinking Guide 2008
– in the shops now or buy online.

While there's a tide of upmarket, designer trattorias sweeping the capital, the hearty, rustic charm of a place like La Lanterna in the city centre could easily be overlooked. The cosy interior, with low lighting and varnished wooden furniture, is miles away from the design of its chic peers, but this is true Italian, family-run style that wouldn't look out of place in the backstreets of Rome, never mind the high streets of Edinburgh. The competitively priced food is equally authentic, reflecting all that's best in Italian home-cooking. Expect traditional hearty lasagne or rich, simple and comforting steak, which is cooked to perfection in a Tuscan pâté sauce and is a regular favourite with diners. Also popular is the extensive antipasti option, heaped with a selection of the finest cured meats, olives and sun-dried or grilled vegetables. The bruschetta piled high with roughly chopped, juicy, ripe tomatoes and a hint of garlic followed by a plate of sumptuous spaghetti carbonara, oozing with flavour, is thoroughly satisfying. Puddings are equally true to their origins, with the creamiest ice-creams and a notably decadent tiramisu, which is definitely worth saving room for.