Raffeollos in Southend-on-Sea

Been going to this restaurant for years, and it's always been great. However, the meal I had there last night and the service was awful. I wouldn't normally comment, however when you see other people getting better service just because they are the friends of the restaurant staff, it really annoyed me. The starter was fine, then had to wait 45 minutes to get out mains, which we had to ask for, and the waiter gave us a nasty look when we did. We'd also finished our drinks and nobody seemed bothered to come ask us if we wanted another, or to clear the empties. So we took our empties to the bar and ordered there, still waited another 20 minutes to get new drinks though. Whilst a couple next to us (friends of the waiter) was being treated like royalty by the staff, got their food fast and drinks whenever they wanted them. Their portions were massive, whilst we were left feeling more hungry after the meal then before. When we finally got our mains, I had Pasta and the waiter asked if I wanted some grated cheese. I said yes please, and saw him leave to never come back again. In fact, I saw him giving parmesan cheese to what felt like literally everybody else in the restaurant but me. I tried waving him over but was ignored. Our mains were cold and dry, like they'd been made then left under a heating lamp and then forgotten about. We had already decided we weren't going to tip, but when we got the cheque, they had put a 10% service charge on for the first time ever, which given the rubbish service was a joke! I've been in there when it's busy, and never had service so bad. I probably wouldn't have the hump if everyone had been treated the same, but when the friends of the staff (and it seemed to be alot of their friends in there last night) get better treatment then all the other paying guests, it rancles me. I will never go back there after last night, there are better Italian restaurants in the area, but we go to this one out of loyalty. Well never again, such a shame!

10 of us visited for dinner last week. Holly our waitress was fantastic - she couldn’t have done anymore to make us all feel welcome and cater to everyone’s requests - thank you!! The food was also great, the pizzas are delicious and we’d all highly recommend the pistachio tiramisu! We will be back!

I recently dined at La Casetta and had the pleasure of trying their pasta carbonara. The dish was rich and creamy, with a generous amount of pancetta that added a delicious smoky flavor. The spaghetti was cooked to perfection, coated in a velvety sauce that had the right balance of cheese and seasoning. While the presentation was simple, the taste was truly satisfying. Beyond the food, the service was exceptional. The staff was attentive, friendly, and made sure we had a great dining experience. If you’re looking for a cozy spot with delicious pasta and top-notch service, La Casetta is definitely worth a visit!

Food is fantastic, fresh and authentic.. Service is superb… Front of house, Francesco, is just fantastic.. Lovely Valentines Day lunch which was so worth the 25 mile drive to come to.. You could choose from the Set Lunch menu, Chef’s Special menu or Alacarte menu, all excellent.. Looking forward to coming back soon and trying the Sunday Set Lunch… Thank you for a lovely experience..

Lovely place. Had a delicious lunch.