Don't tell anyone about Peppe's (From The Westmorland Gazette)

Don't tell anyone about Peppe's

5:04pm Thursday 26th July 2012 in Agony Chef By Hannah Upton

AFTER a day exploring Ingleton both over and underground, Aaron and I were ready for some freshly cooked comfort food.

Our visit to La Tavernetta, also known as Peppe's Italian Restaurant, required some forethought as they don't take reservations and there are only five tables.

But we had heard rave reviews from family and were keen to try it out.

We planned to arrive in time for opening at 6pm but, running typically late, turned up as the handful of diners were tucking into their mains.

It was a 15-minute wait while we studied the menu before our table was ready.

We started with a garlic pizza, washed down with that classic Italian mix of Peroni and milkshakes.

For the main event I settled on some fresh spaghetti bolognese. I opted for a smaller portion with a side of chips for the same price, and there was still more than enough.

Aaron bravely tackled the restaurant's showpiece pizza, The Three Peaks, with llashings of chillies, salami, olives and mushrooms lurking beneath tomato smothered peaks.

Despite full bellies, we were unable to resist sharing a bowl of amaretto ice cream .

Our meals and drinks came to £32, which we thought was good value.

The waitress handling all the tables and takeaway orders was friendly and helpful and we loved the atmosphere.

It's easy to see why the quirky restaurant, which has a 'dine in my front room' feel, is so popular.

I highly recommend you try it out but don't tell the regulars where you heard about it – they won't thank me for spreading the word.

VERDICT

Food: 9

Service: 8

Atmosphere: 8

Value: 8