Al Fresco Italian Restaurant

The name suggests a canopied swath of outdoor tables and chairs, summer dining and little else. On approach I notice that apart from looking a bit like a big greenhouse covered in yellow paint, al fresco seems to have very little in common with the outdoors. Heading inside I have to be shown to my table by  edging past tables side-on. They really do pack people in but the Italian effect decor is a nice touch and the mood lighting is about right, I even notice a quaint garden out the back with a dribble of al fresco dining. I am shown to my table, a very small one at that with the most uncomfortable chair I think I have ever used. The menu, laminated and on yellow card is well worn and quite long but the prices are good for the dishes available.

Apart from waiting ages for table service the food arrives swiftly and the food is very good with string flavours and busy plates. One of the better Italian restaurants in north London in my opinion but still a little rough around the edges - 6/10