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THE ITALIAN JOB
Location: 5 Prospect Street, Caversham, Reading, RG4 8JB
Tel: 0845 241 2930
Open: Mon-Sat noon-2pm, 6.30pm-10.30pm; Sun 10am-2pm for brunch
Website: www.theitalianjobrestaurant.net
The Italian Job takes its name and culinary theme from that most excellent 1960s film starring Michael Caine. In that sense, it's not like any other Italian restaurant I've ever visited - not least because the food follows the same route as the lovable rogues in the film - through England, France and Italy.

Add to this the posters, pictures of minis and other memorabilia, and the experience is truly authentic.

And I'm happy to report that this place is more than just a conceit - the food is amongst the best I've had. The menu offers an excellent choice and each dish is impeccably presented and made from locally bought ingredients. I would particularly recommend the côte du boeuf with red wine jus and fondant potato (£19.50). But also available is the very English venison with creamed cabbage (£16.95) and the beautifully Italian aubergine parmigano (£13.95).

Desserts (especially their famous tiramisu) and something from the extensive wine list complete your experience. Unlike the film, there's no hint of hurry or panic here - they hold only one sitting per evening so you can enjoy the atmosphere at a leisurely pace.

New to the Italian Job is their basement bar, with a full wine list, bottled beers and an extensive cocktail list. Full waiter service is provided, and a range of platters are on offer which you can build to your own specification. For example, choose a selection of cold meats, seafood or vegetarian dishes. The Italian Job also offer outside catering facilities for any occasion.

Enjoy the pleasure of the Italian Job without the catastrophes of the film - just great food and great service.

Please click here to visit our new website www.foodanddrinkguides.co.uk
Please click here to visit our new website
www.foodanddrinkguides.co.uk