GastroRanking-logo
whatsappWhatsapp
phoneCall
desktopWebsite
menuMenu
bookingBooking
3,50

Based on 332 opinions finded in 1 websites

3.5Ambience3.5Cuisine3.5Price3.5Service
site_photo3
Score
OpinionsNoteTripAdvisor3323.5

comment_iconOpinions

We had a family meal there on a Saturday lunch time. There were a lot of us, so we pre-ordered the food. The food was delicious and everyone enjoyed it. Thanks.

site_logo

Angelic26 . 2024-02-12

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Booked for a large party, booking process was good, atmosphere was great, food amazing & most importantly staff very friendly & helpful. Outstanding experience.

site_logo

vickyos . 2023-12-19

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Great ambience low level lighting , warm, cozy, romantic, great portion size. Would recommend the garlic bread with mozzarella and parmesan, also mista meat dish , definitely banoffoffe pie and mint chocolate bombe

site_logo

Ana & Steve . 2023-12-03

MORE AT TripAdvisor

We returned here for the first time in a few years and we were not disappointed. It was as delicious as we remembered - lovely food with a varied menu and very efficient service. The staff were all really friendly and we were very impressed with how quick the service was despite how busy it was. Lovely atmosphere and we would definitely return and recommend to others. Best mozzarella in Carroza that I’ve ever had! Thank you.

site_logo

Bev K . 2023-10-27

MORE AT TripAdvisor

We had a lovely time at Va Pensiero. Really enjoyed the food, the portions were very generous and most of the items were very tasty. Great service and we were able to find parking close by. Standout items were definitely the garlic tomato pesto bread, melanzane parmigiana and penne siciliana. Cannelloni was also nice. Would happily come back and try other items on the menu.

site_logo

HRV . 2023-08-29

MORE AT TripAdvisor

I haven't been to this restaurant for several years. The food was usually fine, but the restaurant was so noisy that it was impossible to hold a conversation. Went for an early dinner at 6:30pm & fortunately the place wasn't too busy & I think they have taken some measures to reduce the noise problem. Both the food and the service were very good, pricing was reasonable & I will certainly start using this place more regularly, probably in preference to Storia, which seems to have gone downhill recently.

site_logo

HertsTimelord . 2023-08-23

MORE AT TripAdvisor

I have been going to this restaurant on a regular basis for several years. On my last visit my friend and I ordered calves liver, when it arrived and we started to eat it, we realised that not only did it look like lambs liver but tasted of it too. There is a distinct difference between both. (Not just in taste and texture but in price as well) A total misinterpretation on the menu. We called the waiter over who shouted at us and laughed in our faces. The manager did not do anything to put it right, we would have had more respect for them if they had admitted it, instead they were rude and arrogant. Will never go to this restaurant again.

site_logo

Amanda H . 2023-08-12

MORE AT TripAdvisor

We have been regular customers at Va Pensiro but never AGAIN. The place is not vegetarian friendly. We ordered some chips with our main course, and found out that later that the chips are cooked in oil that is used for other meat dishes. When we told the manager about this issue, he did not think it was an issue at all and it was our fault for not asking. What is so disturbing is the attitude of the manager and not thinking about how he can address the issue but just to blame us. Terrible night and if restaurants cannot stop the cross contamination between meat and veg dishes then they should clearly state that on the menu. Will never visit this place again.

site_logo

prasheelk2021 . 2023-07-14

MORE AT TripAdvisor

A friend recommended to come here a few years ago but I had never got round to it. Well we came here a couple weeks ago to finally try it out.. and well it seems to have gone really downhill. The staff couldn't seem more unbothered if they tried - not friendly at all. I asked about gluten free options and she had no idea?! In this day and age allergens should be written on the menu. The food is really bland, does not feel like authentic Italian food. If you want proper Italian stick to Oscars Pizza Co. in Kings Langley. Will not return Va Pensiero.

site_logo

Global47039341370 . 2023-07-06

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Lovely restaurant. Nice decor. Had Baked Dough balls and Pizza Garlic bread pesto for starters. Ordered Penne Alla Siciliana and Vegetarian Pizza for mains. Had Mint Bombe for dessert. Food and service were lovely. Will definitely visit again.

site_logo

Bharat D . 2023-04-12

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Lovely experience! Friendly and attentive staff. Food was delicious, we both left very satisfied and full. Can’t understand all the poor reviews as we have always been treated well and had great food when visiting!

site_logo

noskcajmasil . 2023-03-04

MORE AT TripAdvisor

We have recently moved back into Radlett (after being overseas) so I was keen to see if the food was as good as it used to be. We decided to order take away and share the lasagna and a pizza bread, which were generous in serving size and delicious. The staff can come across as quite abrupt but I'm guessing (hoping) that this was just because they were busy juggling Customers and take away orders.

site_logo

SarahJane11London . 2022-10-24

MORE AT TripAdvisor

The four of us had pasta dishes and all of them were delicious. Coming from the States we expected that the portion sizes would be small. However, we were pleasantly surprised. Would eat there again when we next come to England.

site_logo

carolinenH9715RY . 2022-10-03

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Very poor from owner/manager . Very rude and don’t care attitude.been going to restaurant for last 10 years plus first time experience like this. Change of owner or something wasn’t right. Won’t be going back to restaurant any more.

site_logo

Mitesh V . 2022-04-19

MORE AT TripAdvisor

The treatment I received tonight from the owner of Va Pensiero was no other than disgraceful. I ordered a number of main courses for takeaway, one of which I have ordered multiple times before. As I am starting to eat, I can tell that the dish doesn’t taste right and that it has an odd smell. I tried it again, but this just confirmed my initial thought that the cheese was OFF. I called up and requested to speak to the owner about this as I am a regular customer. I’ve never in my life been spoken to so rudely, with so much attitude and disregard for what I was saying. He was aggressive, staying that he knew ‘for sure’ that the dish wasn’t off, despite not working in the kitchen? He raised his voice, told me he was too busy and hung up the phone. I will never again be giving a penny to a restaurant with such a revoltingly spoken owner. Avoid this restaurant at all costs. Would much rather travel a bit further for a more decent customer service and be treated with a bit more respect!!!!!

site_logo

C6323RFkaylas . 2022-04-07

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Having been a regular here for over 10 years or so, it's a real shame when a restaurant no longer lives up to its reputation. Having visited in 2021 a few times we found it was OK, although, not worthy of a 'poor' review. More...

site_logo

Krishna M . 2022-04-02

MORE AT TripAdvisor

we managed to get a last minute booking. main restaurant noisy but good atmosphere. excellent food and service and good value. thank you for making our lunch perfect .

site_logo

O3756XQalisonb . 2022-03-27

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Used to be the cream of the crop in Radlett but has dramatically gone down hill, I think it must be the pandemic but can't confirm as we were served by the owner. The mozzarella starter is still amazing but to be honest how hard...

site_logo

Tottenham1980 . 2022-02-09

MORE AT TripAdvisor

We had the most delicious meal. Couldn’t fault anything. Service and food were fantastic. Definitely will be going back.

site_logo

A2611ZCheatherh . 2021-11-19

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Lovely ambience but the food was rushed. We was served our main course within 5 minutes of ordering and there is no chance that it was freshly cooked. We were in and out within 30 minutes Food was very average, staff lovely. Felt like a...

site_logo

710liamt . 2021-10-29

MORE AT TripAdvisor

This restaurant used to be rather good Today was a disaster Tasteless dried out food No way was it cooked fresh Rubbish pasta that was not authentic Restaurant was empty Sunday lunchtime and will not survive with this cooking Better to eat at home

site_logo

normieUk . 2021-10-17

MORE AT TripAdvisor

I so wish I had read the reviews on this place. I used to come here a few years ago.. it was good. Now it’s terrible. The food is low quality. It’s oven cooked, small portions, tasteless and a rip off. Staff are ok but...

site_logo

mastergravy . 2021-10-01

MORE AT TripAdvisor

They still haven’t sorted the acoustics. It is SO loud it is simply unpleasant. Can’t hear the people the other side of the table.

site_logo

Paul92873 . 2021-09-03

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Really hot, had to ask the waiter to open the door. It's so loud, you can't hear anyone because of the noise. Why can't they invest in proper sound proofing???

site_logo

tomsP1399NT . 2021-09-03

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Had a Friday lunch here with 2 colleagues. We were the only customers in the restaurant for the majority of our lunch . Service was OK as expected with no one else there and our mains were perfectly fine and good coffee afterwards . No...

site_logo

Sweetcure . 2021-07-03

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Havn’t been here for a long while due to previous bad experience. Thought we would get a Take Away this evening. It was the worst food we have had in a long time. Cold pasta , Frozen Garlic bread ice cold in the middle. Whole...

site_logo

Bubalah . 2021-04-10

MORE AT TripAdvisor

So I ordered a take away from here and asked for my food to be made to my taste. All seemed fine and again this wasn’t cheap a pasta dish cost me £11.00. I got home all excited to have my meal and I was...

site_logo

Nikkiknowsbest77 . 2021-04-08

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Subject: Disappointing food We have been regular sit & more recently loyal takeaway customers for many years. Never once had a bad meal. Unfortunately last night our meal looked dried up and was very disappointing. We were told when ordering that sauté potatoes and zucchini...

site_logo

34leesad . 2021-03-15

MORE AT TripAdvisor

So disappointed!!! We rang to place our order at 5pm new year Eve night, with no issues what so ever. I gave my name, and telephone number and was given a order number (I even asked to collect my order later then was offered) I...

site_logo

Amylouu155 . 2020-12-31

MORE AT TripAdvisor

I have previously been to this restaurant a number of times and had really good food. I haven’t been for over 2 years, but thought it would be a lovely place to take my two friends before lockdown. I was so disappointed, the food was...

site_logo

AlisonF646 . 2020-11-04

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Extremely rude restaurant manager unwilling to allow customers voice their concerns about the lack of food quality. Desperate times - Passata sauce is slapped on practically every dish, this is an Italian restaurant? which has clearly lost its passion. There are much better Street food stalls out there in comparison & for a fraction of the price!... Get Ramsey In!... & Avoid this place @ all costs.

site_logo

I_Macchina . 2020-11-02

MORE AT TripAdvisor

We love it here, it’s always reliably great and has good service. We hope to see you after lockdown.

site_logo

JR_21984 . 2020-11-02

MORE AT TripAdvisor

My favourite restaurant ever! Have been eating here for years and never had a bad meal. Staff friendly and reasonable prices.

site_logo

Zoey B . 2020-10-24

MORE AT TripAdvisor

I’ve never written a review before but I felt I had to after what I saw when I went here for dinner with my boyfriend. The food was very mediocre, I’ve had much nicer Italian food at other restaurants, but what really ruined our night was the constant arguing from an old man who I believe was the manager, with other customers. He was very rude and argumentative and it made the atmosphere very uncomfortable and ruined our experience. It’s a shame it would’ve been a better night if the manager had some customer service skills. I avoid all places like this because I refuse to give my money to narcissistic, money grabbing people. Won’t go back again.

site_logo

jessl7890 . 2020-10-17

MORE AT TripAdvisor

THE WORST EXPERIENCE I HAVE EVER HAD AT A RESTAURANT. 3/4 through starters we noticed a hair (light brown, mid length) in our food. The manager came over and insisted it wasn’t from any of his staff, insinuating we had planted it there. My friend and I both have dark brown/black long hair and were absolutely astonished at his response. No apology at all. The health standards (especially during COVID) were appalling. We couldn’t finish our starters and we hardly touched our mains as we were so put off our food. When the bill came, the manager refused to take the starter off, raising his voice and arguing with us. It was very embarrassing, he reminded me of what you would find in the tv programme Kitchen Nightmares (those argumentative, rude managers who never want to take accountability). He actually laughed and walked away when we expressed how upset we were, he did not seem to care at all about his customers and this was further obvious as we also saw him arguing with another group as we walked out. HORRIBLE.

site_logo

496elliems . 2020-10-16

MORE AT TripAdvisor

I came in to this italian restaurant with my family for a nice quiet meal. Usually when one travels out for dinner they expect friendly and approachable service. However, the manager of this restaurant is a disgrace to the service industry. Rude, loud, belittling...one of the members of our party was nearly in tears after the way he spoke to our table. I never post reviews on tripadvisor but I felt an obligation to potential future customers to make them aware of our experience. AVOID THIS PLACE AT ALL COSTS.

site_logo

keval p . 2020-10-15

MORE AT TripAdvisor

This restaurant was recommended by someone who went on someone else’s recommendation- word of mouth - says it all! I too will pass it on.This is a restaurant that does what it should - it provides an environment that allows you to relax and enjoy good company whilst fabulous food is ordered (with advise but no fuss,), then delivered, enjoyed and taken away without Interruption to Your conversation. It’s quite a talent and very hard to achieve. So many restaurantS want to stop your conversation to make a performance of their service.I loved my evening at Va Pensiero! The only blot was the next table complaining and the staff going overboard to defend themselves. My advise to the management, you had a buzzing, full restaurant mid week in the middle of an epidemic! You can not please every person all of the time!

site_logo

864isobelh . 2020-10-15

MORE AT TripAdvisor

not good uninterested staff.it seems it is living in the past .message to owner /manager sort it out

site_logo

John H . 2020-09-28

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Staff take the award for rudest service. Management no better. Take away produced the wrong food and when challenged they couldn’t care less. Clearly bothered them to get it right. Once home the food was bland and tasteless. We would never return. So many better places nearby.

site_logo

Noshboy . 2020-09-26

MORE AT TripAdvisor

This is the 3rd time I've been to this restaurant and I won't be going again...- decor and atmosphere still quite trendy- most of the staff are great but we were greeted by a waiter who wanted to know what time we were leaving (before we even sat down!) and was generally quite rude.. we almost walked out- food average but pizzas quite badly burnt and weren't great- restaurant tagged on a service charge and table charge when they shouldn't have.Overall a very disappointing experience.

site_logo

UKLondonTravellerN . 2020-09-15

MORE AT TripAdvisor

I booked a table online this morning for this evening and seemed to book the wrong time, therefor I called to discuss this and was spoken to in the most rudest way possible, I was spoken to as though I was an idiot. It was dreadful and completely unprofessional. However after this my boyfriend and I decided to get a takeaway from here instead. When I say disappointed I mean thoroughly disappointed. Spent over £30 on two starters (garlic bread ) that were stone cold and two mains (pasta) which were also as dry as the Sahara desert. I really don't understand when this restaurant went so down hill however they should 100% consider training their employees on how to speak to customers. I've seen better customer service in the Mc Donald's drive thru. I will not be eating here again, vile.

site_logo

MiaSXX . 2020-09-05

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Booked online. Received email saying booking pending. Waited four hours for confirmation email which didnt arrive. Rang 19 times n phone picked up and put down. Emailled no reply. Went to find restaurant overbooked, no apology, only it is too busy for them to contact customers to say their booking even though space was available when booked is overbooked. We were regulars but not anymore.

site_logo

Mandpclarke . 2020-08-25

MORE AT TripAdvisor

I have ordered takeout from here for many years and always been impressed. This evening it was clear that our waiter was in a rush to get home, which is a shame. No matter how much you hate what you do, always show passion :) I was also quite dissatisfied to find that we had a £4 “cover charge” added to the menu - which upon conversation with the manager is to ‘pay for’ hand sanitizer & disposable menu’s???? I work in Victoria london and have been eating out regularly during Covid and I am yet to experience such a charge. By all means I understand it but I have a menu on the internet (my phone) and my own hand sanitiser. Interesting to find such a charge on the bill.

site_logo

davidfP976PD . 2020-08-21

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Company was good but the food was better. Delicious starters, the calamari and breadcrumbed fried mozzerella in sauce were favourites, along with the pizza garlic bread, and they werent small portions at all so dont overorder as mains are just as good. Creamy tomato sauce pasta with aubergine and mozzerella was *chefs kiss*, again portion size massive so have got enough for my work lunch tomorrow! Pizza was decent also, but i feel like the pastas are the go to here.

site_logo

neha998 . 2020-08-17

MORE AT TripAdvisor

A great meal unspoiled by Covid precautions. Staff all masked, knives forks napkin and salt n pepper all neatly housed in a plastic envelope. Very large portions of excellent Italian food, plenty of space around the tables. Well done to you all for your efforts. :))

site_logo

719KevinM . 2020-08-16

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Difficult to review All staff wore masks so little or no interaction Makes for a different environment Food was fine Drinks were not served at correct temperature

site_logo

davethedrill . 2020-08-15

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Popped in here for a quick lunch with colleagues, restaurant well organised re COVID and felt safe. Decent food, tried the fillet of Cod with Zucchini Fries and it tasted fine , restaurant is taking part in the eat out scheme so the bill was a nice surprise

site_logo

MartinH641 . 2020-08-13

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Our favourite Italian. Always fresh, fantastic food and wonderful service. A rare find and always lovely, welcoming staff. We visited today for the first time since lockdown and it was as fantastic as ever. I’d highly recommend Va Pensiero you love great quality food and a friendly atmosphere. Great for veggies too!

site_logo

michellekellyjenkins . 2020-08-02

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Hate this place from today. So 3 girls staying at the bar and talking in romanian language about another people from restaurant. Manager also was so rude, in 4 words “VERY BAD customer service”. Plus nobody told us from begining about we have to pay “ Cover Charge” which is mean they give it to you 1 fork, 1 knife, 1 spoon, pepper and salt in bag and just for this you have to pay 1£ per person. This make me laugh, is ridiculous and crazy, none of restaurants asking this from you. Anyway Never will come back again in this place. I just regret i spend my money here and to receive this headaches. Thx

site_logo

ela e . 2020-07-26

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Arrived as a party of four to a more or less empty restaurant at 5pm for a booked meal.Manager needlessly made a fuss of us asking to be sat by the door in the empty dining room, "in case it got busy later and he wanted the table"?Ordered 4 drinks after we sat down, and it took ages considering there were 2 waitresses plus the manager with only one other table with less than 4 diners.Asked for (emphasised) lime cordial with one Italian draught lager, arrived minus it.Starters were expensive for what was described - e.g. King prawns in a chilli, lemon etc sauce at over eight pounds arrived on a plate with 5 dry anaemic prawns of differing sizes,2 had tails and the others didn't, and the 'sauce' was in a thimble sized bowl sat alongside the prawns on the the plate. No dressing, no garnish, nothing.Just 5 pale prawns (some with tails, some without?) chucked on a plate with the tiny bowl of sauce alongside them.Mains were mixed. Lasagne was nice, but the cod with a chilli lemon dressing was two tiny strips, limp, and minus ANY chilli whatsoever in the sauce.The vegetarian 'Melazagne' was loaded with large chunks of raw garlic - Literally tons of it uncooked.The 5 pound side dish of 'garlic bread' was a half portion of one (very small) flat bread with garlic butter simply melted on top of it.After waiting ages to see a waitress I had to get up from my table, walk over, and interrupt their conversation at the second bar furthest from the door to order a second drink.I asked for a second pint, but was told "no" as the manager had reportedly waited for the restaurant to open in order to now clean the "beer machine" serving Italian draught lager.So I had a Heineken instead. Bear in mind it's 6 pounds a pint for either offering.The other dishes / sides were ok, albeit very pricey for what was served, but the overall 'experience' was very shoddy and just not remotely worth the price.By all means charge high end prices, I'm happy to pay them, but then make sure you deliver on the food / service quality and consistenSadly this establishment failed abysmally on all counts.My wife, who has eaten there before, also said the portion sizes had definitely been reduced, but certainly not the prices in tandem.

site_logo

Phelim O . 2020-07-25

MORE AT TripAdvisor

As regular customers to the restaurant before lockdown and grateful users of the take away during lockdown we were excited to return for our first meal out.The food was as delicious as always however we feel the following changes would improve the overall experience.We were surprised that the waiting staff did not wear face coverings especially as they came close in order to serve.The paper menus were put to one side when we finished, it would have been reassuring to see them folded up for disposal.While I appreciate the need for cleanliness, the tables were stark and bare and a candle or flower would have made the restaurant more atmospheric.Finally, the music was not conducive to a relaxing or romantic evening, theme songs from James Bond for example and on a constant loop!

site_logo

Jelenya1 . 2020-07-23

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Perfect meal last night, beautiful food as normal, however.... as we were finishing our main course , some unsavoury families arrived, parked their paving truck on the pavement outside the restaurant, started counting out around three or four thousand cash on the dining table , effing and blinding every other word, kids screaming, the two men dressed in dirty tee shirts from working and scruffy shorts, a complete nightmare on what was a lovely anniversary meal totally spoilt, I have given a poor review because although the meal was nice this restaurant has turned into a pizza cafe for anyone that wants to walk in the door. A place we have been to many times but I doubt we will go again!!

site_logo

Marky5458 . 2020-07-16

MORE AT TripAdvisor

We had a takeaway pasta dishes Excellent tasty hot food Huge portions Ready on time so will return Well done to them

site_logo

normieUk . 2020-05-28

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Nice food and a friendly welcome. great tunes playing and nice art in the walls too. We stopped for lunch and it was just right

site_logo

Jonnywelch76 . 2020-03-12

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Love this restraunt..it has real Italian ambiance and you always feel like you just lose yourself.. The whole place is like so romantic in the sense of serenity and decor. Met up with friends and is always amazing, food, service and company. Yes, its more expensive than other places around Radlett but it's worth it. Dont visit that often anymore but always a great evening when I do. Would totally recommend.

site_logo

ellyw814 . 2020-01-17

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Had dinner here and was slightly underwhelmed as I was expecting something more special , tried the king prawns starter and then the sea bass , both were ok but nothing special

site_logo

MartinH641 . 2020-01-15

MORE AT TripAdvisor

The best restaurant for miles!!! Food always delicious, good selection of wines, courteous service and reasonably priced! You are guaranteed a good meal here!

site_logo

indianlil . 2019-12-31

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Second time visiting and found again the food to be absolutely lovely. Only negatives are we felt left in a corner on this occasion and had the service been more attentive we would have ordered more than just mains and a single drink each.

site_logo

HI886 . 2019-12-30

MORE AT TripAdvisor

We were seated promptly and experienced reasonable service throughout.There was a wide choice of dishes; I ate off the Christmas "set menu" but my companion went a la carte. The food was piping hot and the portions were large. Saute potatoes not recommended.The restaurant was a little noisy; some soft furnishings would help.Poor range of zero sugar drinks.

site_logo

Jack A . 2019-12-23

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Have been many times before , food was good again but walked in and no acknowledgement we were there , eventually shown to table , paid bill no thank you for tip , and left with out a goodbye not good customer service

site_logo

Trish R . 2019-12-13

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Great food, far too noisy for an enjoyable mealtime. Service was polite, not pushy. Wouldn't go back.

site_logo

Trek497960 . 2019-12-10

MORE AT TripAdvisor

The aubergines are lovely and taste wonderful my daughter had pasta and said it was really tasty the food is very filling so have a good appetite when visiting

site_logo

P8407ZHamandas . 2019-12-03

MORE AT TripAdvisor

The food was nice but have had bad experiences the past two times.

site_logo

Reviewer9095 . 2019-11-09

MORE AT TripAdvisor

First and last visit, I have eaten in many Italian restaurant in my time. Va Pensiero is like so many Italian restaurant today not real. The menu has everything that you expect from a british Italian restaurant. I had meat balls to start they were all ok but the sauce was the same has my pizza calzone, my friend had the lamb and the sauce was the same again my wife had the prawns guess what sauce the same. Everyone left the restaurant saying it was a disappointing meal, but to be fair to the restaurant they have been there many years and were busy. Owner please make it real.

site_logo

LagoOrta1 . 2019-11-02

MORE AT TripAdvisor

A classy restaurant with delicious food; pleasant service and all at a reasonable price. The knock 25% off before 5.pm and it becomes a must visit.

site_logo

Melvyn W . 2019-09-04

MORE AT TripAdvisor

We went on a Friday lunchtime which perhaps was not the best time. A large restaurant with only us 7 and a few others. So no atmosphere. Food was ok but as someone else mentioned. It was average and a bit pricey but Italians usually are but make up for price on service etc. I can say ours and the only waitress was not the happiest. We had a bit of a dispute over the bill. We paid the amount plus a large tip but was told we had to pay a service charge of 10% as there was 7 of us. So we had to pay more. The waitress said as we had paid a tip it meant we enjoyed the meal and by that had agreed to pay the service charge. Evidently this is stated on the menu. We paid the difference not with arguing. I don’t live near there so won’t be going again.

site_logo

24colint . 2019-09-04

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Standard service but the food was below average especially for the price. Lasagna tasted like it had been frozen and my £6 desert was a scoop of ice cream with soggy cake on top. Do not consider a small wine spritzer unless you're willing to pay £8.70 as they do not have lemonade on tap so will charge you a bottle per glass and not even use it up. Not somewhere I'd recommend or be going back too. Any complaints are just ignored.

site_logo

Sadiel111 . 2019-08-28

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Have visited this restaurant many years over the last 10 years, it's handy for somewhere to pop into. Food generally good...however after visiting tonight, I feel slightly let down.

site_logo

abc26529 . 2019-07-18

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Good food at reasonable prices. Very friendly and helpful staff. Good choice of vegetarian dishes. Desserts were very good.

site_logo

Dave B . 2019-07-15

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Been coming here very regularly for years and as the title says, it never disappoints.

site_logo

turnleftisbest . 2019-07-11

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Have been to va pensiero a number of times and the food never disappoints. We did have a bit of a wait for our table (which we had booked) but service was good once we were seated. I had the penne contadina which was delicious! Will definitely return here soon!

site_logo

cheekyface27 . 2019-07-08

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Came her with my family, a table of 6. The kids asked for the “kids meal”, ordered the food. The waitress then told the youngest (aged 6) that there were no soft drinks as all the drinks had gone off. She specifically said sorry, that it was only water or wine or beer. All of us took her at face value, she was polite and otherwise efficient.

site_logo

Escaped_for_the_WE . 2019-07-08

MORE AT TripAdvisor

The food is truly phenomenal, and really reasonably priced. The staff are lovely and the restaurant itself has a modern but authentic feel. I’ll definitely be back!

site_logo

ohashy . 2019-06-24

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Good example of an independent well-run Italian restaurant. Very nice food, and great service. Very helpful staff and pleasant surroundings. Quite noisy, but got used to the level, although still had to shout to be heard. Will return in the future.

site_logo

flobay6 . 2019-06-17

MORE AT TripAdvisor

I went for a late lunch during the week with a friend and we were the only people in the restaurant. It must have been quite inconvenient but the waitress was charming and the food freshly cooked to our requests. A real pleasure to have lazed away the afternoon at the restaurant.

site_logo

Michael F . 2019-05-08

MORE AT TripAdvisor

I recently went to this restaurant with my family and I must say that the food is delicious. Friendly attentive staff with nice surroundings. Would definitely recommend to go there.

site_logo

Louise H . 2019-03-14

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Good local restaurant very popular and usually fairly busy . Food is very good as is the service. Happy to recommend

site_logo

Colin P . 2019-02-16

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Haven't been for years and there are some bad reviews. My guess is that there are some bad customers too - demanding out of towners.

site_logo

Travelote . 2019-02-14

MORE AT TripAdvisor

We visited this restaurant on Xmas eve. The foo was good and we enjoyed ourselves. The only thing I can say is that it lacked festive spirit! No decorations just a tree at the entrance. Could have made bit more effort to make it more festive.

site_logo

foroughs2016 . 2018-12-25

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Having taken my family ( 8 adults and 2 children under 2) to lunch yesterday, I can only describe this restaurant as average. Over cooked meat, undercooked calamari and vegetables ( potatoes) that were incinerated.

site_logo

rdavis3836 . 2018-12-24

MORE AT TripAdvisor

The food is great but the service isn’t. The food takes a while to come especially when you are with a big crowd. There is something for everyone and you could go with anyone👍

site_logo

liawolpert . 2018-12-15

MORE AT TripAdvisor

As a family we come here offen, friendly staff, lovely food. Never changes which we love. Will be back soon

site_logo

JP321123 . 2018-12-11

MORE AT TripAdvisor

I called in advance to book a table and informed the lady on the phone it was a birthday dinner, she said i should remind my waiter upon my arrival which i did.

site_logo

Ibed69 . 2018-12-05

MORE AT TripAdvisor

This is just a dressed up over priced version of Pizza Hut. I wouldn’t recommend it for a night out. If you do go take ear defenders as the locals like to shout!!

site_logo

Archiedog1 . 2018-11-17

MORE AT TripAdvisor

6 adults and 2 kids went for dinner. I had read the mixed reviews and went with trepidation.

site_logo

harvey s . 2018-11-06

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Strangely the main pizzas were not the quality I remember from previous visits to this restaurant and it's beaconsfield branch as well. However the pesto garlic pizza bread started was as good as any interpretation of garlic bread I've tasted. Should have had this for mains as well.

site_logo

nn207 . 2018-10-26

MORE AT TripAdvisor

This is possibly one of the worst meals I have ever eaten. For a start when you walk in the whole place stinks of Garlic - it's almost as if a on Italian has a tick list for what Italian food should be. My last visit was last year - but I can still taste the awful, cloying sickly taste of Sardines in what tasted like lemon curd. It was without a doubt the worst combination of food I have ever tasted. EVER.

site_logo

wayn0 . 2018-10-14

MORE AT TripAdvisor

It was a surprise place, very large portions , it is a very family place and good food. Not a place for a date night . need parking as it is hard to find parking, beside that it is worth going

site_logo

virumpatel . 2018-09-08

MORE AT TripAdvisor

We visited for dinner and we really enjoyed our meal

site_logo

nikd76 . 2018-08-27

MORE AT TripAdvisor

I had the best mozzarella garlic bread ever here, also the chicken ala polo is a must!! The only reason I gave only 4 starts is because you closed the Beconsfield branch and Raddlet is too far away!! Please re-open we want to have your food more often but we live in Windsor and is too far.

site_logo

annerose1215 . 2018-08-25

MORE AT TripAdvisor

We visited this restaurant by chance on a weekend away in Radlett. The atmosphere was good and the staff were friendly. Great for a quick and cheap tea. The restaurant doesn’t have a lot of choice on the menu, but there is plenty if you are looking for a quick pizza pasta dinner with good wine. Perfect place to pop in and out.

site_logo

Klara L . 2018-08-24

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Very good food and so was the service but the place was very busy and very noisy. Been there a few times now

site_logo

franwood1 . 2018-08-22

MORE AT TripAdvisor

First impressions can be very misleading! When we entered this restaurant the staff were very welcoming and the decor ans atmosphere were very pleasant, and then....... as the restaurant got slightly fuller it became almost impossible to hear one another speak. We were goaded into making a drinks choice quite quickly. When we ordered the waiter was abrupt and did not seem to want to give us a little more time. The starters arrived soon after ordering which suggested to us that they were not made to order and before I could have mine I had to requested a clean knife as the one that had been laid had food residue on it. As for mains, which arrived as soon as the starters had been cleared the only one that did not raise any eyebrows was the chicken Caesar salad! My pizza was tiny compared to the ones you normally get at independent italian restaurants and was so perfectly formed it suggested that it was not freshly made and simply taken out of a box in a freezer and sprinkled with topping an thrown in to an oven. My wife's pasta was "gluupy" and fairly tasteless, and the othe diner with us, within half an hour of leaving the restaurants had to head to the loo and stayed there quite a while and was up most of the night. This is definitely one evening I do not want to do again!

site_logo

Andrew L . 2018-08-19

MORE AT TripAdvisor

First visit to this restaurant the decor is nice and the staff were welcoming but that is as good as it gets if you love and know Italian food give this a miss could not eat the food was that bad sent it back and reordered of the menu the same could not eat very poor quality maybe ok for pizza? The staff apologised and wiped the bill shame as complaining is not what we went there for and puts a downer on the evening

site_logo

davidredding251 . 2018-08-18

MORE AT TripAdvisor

It's been a while since I visited Va pensiero and booked to take out some friends to celebrate amongst other things 2 friends birthdays.

site_logo

elly w . 2018-08-17

MORE AT TripAdvisor

We have been coming to this Italian for a number of years. Last week we visited here and was very disappointed. We were a large party of 12 for a family birthday celebration, The food was not authentic at all, l have been eating in true Italian restaurants and in Italy for a lot of years! The service was very cold and we asked for jugs of iced water as it was during the very hot weather! That request seemed to be ignored and we were given 4 glasses of water! There were 12 of us! The food was bland and highly priced, The wine was cheap and not a great selection, Very sad and not sure we will return,

site_logo

Anita T . 2018-08-12

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Went there with family I had a starter with smoked salmon and prawns and avocado which was lovely my mum had spaghetti with shell fish she enjoyed and my daughter had fresh fish that she said tasted lovely

site_logo

Amanda S . 2018-08-02

MORE AT TripAdvisor

I went here not so long ago and never will I go back! Firstly the staff are rude, when tried to flag down someone to serve us for 10 minutes they kept walking past and ignoring our table. Secondly all the food is frozen nothing is fresh. My partner ordered a prawn starter and they were still frozen it was only the sauce that was piping hot.. I ordered the cannelloni and when I tell you then amount of oil that was layering over was disgusting. Refused to pay. Never will go here again

site_logo

Harriet S . 2018-07-28

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Booked a table for my birthday celebration 14 adults & 3 children. Excellent food generous portions everyone enjoyed what they ordered. Staff very friendly and attentive. Would definitely recommend. Thank you for a lovely evening

site_logo

beautiful01436 . 2018-07-14

MORE AT TripAdvisor

The restaurant sells gift vouchers and we were given £100 worth by friends at Christmas. When we ordered a takeaway in May, we used some of the vouchers but when I went to collect the food, the young woman who took them for payment questioned whether they were genuine. "Anyone could have made these" she said in her broken English. Ridiculous! These vouchers can only be bought from this restaurant.

site_logo

Noshboy . 2018-06-30

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Similary restaurants in East of England