Il Forno is like a slice of Italy in the heart of Liverpool and among the many establishments that serve Italian food or claim to be real this restaurant shines like an authentic gem.

The interior has comfortable leather and dark wood furniture, bright colours, and art on the walls and you could even watch your pizza being created in the oven that is made to look like an enormous fire breathing face. The Italian born staff add to the experience and serve dishes from the unique to the traditional with passion.

The á la carte, pizzeria, deli and takeaway menus present customers with a range of options; start an evening meal with a selection of cured meats and cheeses, or calamari and fried vegetables, before moving on to a pizza or oven-baked layers of pasta with Bolognese, béchamel and Parmesan. Mains of pork steaks or veal shanks braised with rosemary, carrot and a hint of orange are served on saffron risotto.

End the journey with a classic tiramisu. Wines, champagne and cocktails complement the food.