Sadivino

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

Alessandro and Carmen's 'mi casa su casa' philosophy sets the warm-hearted tone at their Italian/Spanish café. Colourful jars of pesto hug up to bottles of brindisi and other Italian fine wines and flirt for attention next to the panettone in the deli/off licence section. Specials on the blackboard beside the brace of pavement tables entice passersby to join the loyal regulars, and the cosily arranged tables bustle with life at lunchtime. Service is fast on its feet, bringing fresh and feisty salad platters of crimson beef bresaola and pungent provolone cheese, black olives and garlic bruschetta dressed with Alessandro's father's own olive oil. Panini, prepared with quality ingredients and care, are filled with pairings of chorizo and gorgonzola, or goat's cheese and marinated vegetables, with added sun-dried tomatoes and peppery rocket or any other extras you might fancy. And to finish, a home-made panacotta or tiramisu, with a rich espresso. Dedication, combined with superb ingredients, underpins Sadivino's reputation, and at barely a tenner per person for two courses and a coffee, it's also a real steal.

• High point: Winning flavour fusions
• Low point: No space for late-comers