A clever use of mirrors makes the interior appear much larger than it actually is without detracting from the intimate atmosphere. The décor is simple and rustic, making it the perfect backdrop for the fabulous, beautifully cooked and presented food.

The fare is of course typically Italian - pastas, pizzas, meats, and fish dominate. Considering the venue location and quality, prices are surprisingly reasonable, ranging from a £2.95 order of garlic bread to the £16.95 prime sirloin steak cooked in Chianti. Count on everything else you'd expect from an authentic Italian restaurant and more, as the menu changes seasonally.

On the evening of my visit, we chose a bottle of delicious house red before moving on to the dish selections. For my starter I picked the Pomadora, an Italian staple of mozzarella, tomato, oregano, and olive oil (£4.95) - fresh and tasty and not too heavy. My partner went with Gamberoni Pili-Pili (prawns in a spicy tomato sauce), his exclamations of delight proving their tastiness.

Next up was the Gamberoni alla Griglion: spaghetti with king prawns, chillies and tomato sauce (£12.95) - and all I can say is I'd find it difficult to not order it again next time. My partner sampled the Grigliata Mista di Corne (£15.95), an Italian mixed grill with vegetables that was a mixture of griddled and succulent meats served with sautéed new potatoes and salad.

Little Italy's desserts are delectable. I opted for wild strawberry cheesecake - light, crunchy, and satisfying on many levels - and an espresso, which gave just the right amount of kick.

At Little Italy, the staff are only too happy to accommodate guests for minor meals such as simply coffee and cake, and we saw for ourselves how welcoming they are to families, too: a young couple with a baby arrived at 8.30pm, and nothing was too much trouble. If you want a real taste of Italy without having to leave Berkshire, Little Italy should be at the top of your list.