Lucy Miles (27 June 2009)

Prezzo in Maidstone is part of an established chain of Italian restaurants scattered across England. Set in a beautifully restored building, fronted with authentic beams, it boasts real character and charm. Unfortunately, the restaurant does not provide its own parking, but it is just a short trip across the road, from Fremlin Walk multi-storey car park. It is ideally situated for a meal after work or at any time when shopping. The inviting interior has wooden floors, sparkling linen tablecloths, and bright, modern artwork. Tables are carefully placed throughout a variety of rooms, including a conservatory, and it is possible to eat al fresco in the well-tended garden to the rear of the property. This variety of different sized spaces enables large groups, or intimate couples, to dine comfortably at the same time. Soft music provides a calming backdrop, but does not interrupt conversation.

The menu provides a wide variety of starters, mains, desserts and beverages to suit the most discerning connoisseurs of Italian cuisine. In addition to the standard menu, a number of tasty seasonal specials are also very well presented by your waiter. To complement the menu there is an extensive wine list with bottles of reds and whites starting from as low as £13.95. The starters include the obvious options, such as marinated olives, garlic bread and bruschetta, but the more adventurous can try crab cakes served with a lime and dill dressing, or grilled goat’s cheese with beef tomatoes and caramelised onions, on freshly baked ciabatta bread. All of these get your juices flowing, ready to move casually through the rest of the courses. It is even more difficult to choose your main course from the numerous options of pastas, pizzas, risottos and salads. A good guide, as always, would be how light you wish your meal to be and if you are planning to have a dessert. The restaurant caters extremely well for vegetarians as there is more than one choice for different sections. I selected the delicious, freshly-baked Bianca pizza, covered in salty goat’s cheese and fresh asparagus tips, and I was not disappointed once I added their hot and spicy chilli oil – declaring it one of the best pizzas I have ever had! As my main was so filling, I declined the dessert menu, although I was sorely tempted by the two cheesecakes of toffee roast banana and honeycomb smash. Instead, I opted for a strong and freshly ground coffee, which successfully rounded off my meal. Prezzo provided a delicious range of food in a charming and tranquil environment. The waiting staff are attentive, but not overbearing, and you are able to set your own pace to complete the experience. Perhaps the best feature in the current climate is the fact that it can suit most budgets. I took advantage of the two for one voucher and felt that I actually got more than I paid for. It is not often that you can say that now is it?

Sonia (17 December 2007)

The food was lovely. It has a varied menu for Italian cuisine. The prices are reasonable the service is great. The side entrance gives wheelchair access and well equipped disabled toilet. The service was friendly and I would eat there again for sure. The website includes the menu. Try the specials I was really impressed on first visit. You could choose that venue after reading reviews on the site.