Bella Italia is a welcome addition to the Tandem Centre in Colliers Wood.

You could be forgiven for thinking it is just another Italian restaurant chain, but its delicious food and bright, contemporary décor sets it apart from the numerous others around.

We started with a tasty Pizza Spirale, which is ciabatta style twisted pizza dough filled with melted mozzarella and served with a fiery arrabbiata dip, and a bruschetta.

Although it was colourful and well presented, my partner was not impressed with the bruschetta because he said the tomatoes did not have much flavour, although this was greatly improved by the addition of olive oil carefully applied by the waiter.

As well as the selection of burgers, fresh fish, pasta and pizzas, there were plenty of vegetarian and low-calorie options which were clearly marked on the menu.

Next up were recommendations by manager Paul - Pollo Limone Siciliana (or Sicilian lemon chicken to you and me) and Gamberoni, which is king prawns sautéed with spaghetti, garlic and chilli in a spicy pomodoro sauce.

They were both very good, and we were impressed by the distinctive flavours and presentation of each dish, as well as the addition of freshly grated parmesan and black pepper which came in what looked like the world's largest grinder.

We were tempted into dessert by the delicious range of ice-creams, cheesecakes, pannacotta and brownies.

I chose three shot glasses packed with tiramisu, strawberry cheesecake and an amaretto chocolate pot, all of which were delicious and just the right size to devour after a filling meal.

The serving staff were very attentive, knowledgeable and friendly, although they forgot to bring us the side salad and water for the table.

Sometimes it's the little details that make all the difference.

  • Bella Italia, 13 The Tandem Centre, Tandem Way, Colliers Wood, SW19 2TY.
  • Phone:020 3058 3051
  • Reservations: bookatable.co.uk