Experience the taste of Italy in the heart of England
Our Story
Il Piccolinos is more than just a restaurant; it's a family-run business that has been serving traditional Sicilian and Italian cuisine for over four decades. Founded in 1979 by Domenico Urso, a passionate chef who immigrated to the UK from Sicily, Il Piccolinos has become a staple in the community. The restaurant has been passed down through generations, with Domenico's two sons, Salvio and Arturo, joining the business in 2002. Today, Il Piccolinos remains a family affair, with the next generation of Urso family members involved in the day-to-day operations of the restaurant.
Our History
Il Piccolinos has a rich history that spans over 40 years. Established in 1979, the restaurant's humble beginnings were marked by Domenico Urso's passion for traditional Sicilian cuisine. Over the years, the restaurant has expanded to cater to a wider audience, incorporating Italian flavors and dishes into its menu. Despite the passage of time, Il Piccolinos has remained true to its roots, with the same commitment to quality and customer service that characterized its early days.
Our Menu
Our menu is a reflection of our Italian heritage and our dedication to using only the freshest ingredients. From our traditional Sicilian dishes to our innovative creations, our menu is designed to take you on a culinary journey through the rich flavors and aromas of Italy. Whether you're in the mood for a hearty pasta dish, a flavorful pizza, or a refreshing salad, our menu offers something for every palate.
Antipasti
Our antipasti selection is designed to encourage socializing and sharing with friends and family. With a range of options from classic bruschetta to innovative creations, there's something for everyone. Choose from:
- Olivi misto: a selection of mixed olives served with focaccia fingers
- Bruschetta: toasted Italian bread topped with a choice of toppings
- Antipasto Riviera: a selection of cured meats, cheeses, and vegetables
- Antipasto Mediterraneo: a selection of Italian meats, cheeses, and vegetables
Primo
Our primo dishes are the heart of Italian cuisine. Choose from:
- Pasta alla norma: a classic Sicilian pasta dish featuring eggplant, tomatoes, and ricotta salata
- Spaghetti bolognese: a classic Italian pasta dish featuring ground beef and tomatoes
- Fettuccine alfredo: a rich and creamy pasta dish featuring parmesan and mushrooms
Secondi
Our secondi dishes are designed to satisfy your appetite. Choose from:
- Polpette: traditional Sicilian meatballs served with cherry tomatoes and a crusty bread
- Involtini di speck: rolled pork and beef meatballs served with a porcini sauce
- Formaggio fritti: fried camembert, brie, and taleggio cheese served with a spring onion and bacon salad
Contorni
Our contorni selection offers a range of side dishes to complement your meal. Choose from:
- Garlic bread: a classic Italian staple
- Grilled vegetables: a selection of seasonal vegetables grilled to perfection
- Patate arrosto: roasted potatoes with rosemary and garlic
Dolci
Our dolci selection is designed to satisfy your sweet tooth. Choose from:
- Tiramisu: a classic Italian dessert featuring ladyfingers, mascarpone, and espresso
- Cannoli: fried pastry shells filled with sweetened ricotta and chocolate chips
- Gelato: a selection of artisanal Italian ice cream flavors
Special Diets
At Il Piccolinos, we understand the importance of accommodating special diets. Our menu features options for vegans, gluten-free, and other special dietary needs. Please inform our staff of any dietary restrictions, and we will do our best to accommodate your needs.
Reservations
Reservations are highly recommended, especially on weekends and during peak hours. Please contact us to reserve a table in advance.
Overall Experience
The majority of reviewers had a positive experience at the restaurant, with many praising the food, service, and atmosphere. However, a few reviewers experienced issues with slow service and high prices.
Food Quality
The food quality was highly praised, with many reviewers mentioning specific dishes such as the ravioloni ricotta e spinachi, risotto with ham and gorgonzola, and spaghetti Bolognese. The pasta and ice cream were also mentioned as being particularly good.
Service
The service was generally good, with many reviewers commenting on the courteous and helpful staff. However, a few reviewers experienced slow service, with one reviewer having to wait 50 minutes to place their order.
Atmosphere
The atmosphere was described as lovely, with one reviewer mentioning the nice young black-haired waitress as making their experience special.
Value for Money
Some reviewers felt that the prices were above average, with one reviewer commenting on the high price of soft drinks. However, many reviewers felt that the quality of the food and service made it worth the extra cost.
Negative Experiences
A few reviewers had negative experiences, including one reviewer who experienced slow service and had to ask multiple times to place their order. Another reviewer felt that the prices were too high, particularly for soft drinks.
