On a bed of rocket leaves and spinach were several large Portobello mushrooms drizzled in oil and topped with thick slices of the most creamy goat's cheese. The soft fusion of the cheese and mushrooms was a taste that definitely deserves to be revisited and that was just my starter.

As a fairly fussy diner, I find it difficult to overlook the finer details that can ruin what has the potential to be an enjoyable evening. But at the nine-year-old Al Fresco Italian restaurant, I just couldn't find fault.

From the olives and bread upon arrival, ice and lemon in my Coke, matching cutlery to the superb blue coffee crockery, the attention to detail is matched by attentive staff, who are well-dressed, quick and inconspicuous except when they are happily chatting or delighting birthday patrons with a profiterole, candle and song.

The restaurant has recently benefitted from an extension, which features a light-filled conservatory. Floor-to-ceiling windows overlook a decking and garden beyond which will be landscaped to include a water feature. A balmy summer's night outside under the canopy makes for a romantic setting.

Back inside, the yellow tones, ornate mirrors and wooden furniture create a warm, cosy ambience.

I particularly liked the small touches, such as various Italian artefacts, packets of pasta and serving implements hung and displayed around the restaurant. But I digress back to the food.

For my main I chose the traditional Ossobucco on a bed of saffron rice, where the meat fell off the bone and melted in my mouth. My partner feasted on the mixed grill, comprising sausage, chicken, cutlets and liver infused with garlic and rosemary. In his words, mouthwatering'.

There is a huge variety on the menu, which comprises various meats, seafood, pasta, risotto, huge array of antipasto and pizza (but not on Mondays).

Every serving is generous. The dessert menu is also plentiful. I followed my meal with a fresh fruit salad, while my partner had a smooth strawberry sorbet with strawberries on the side.

I get the feeling Al Fresco is a popular option, whether that's because the restaurant was very busy for a Monday or the fact that it offers fantastic value for money but mainly because it offers a culinary package.

I will certainly be going back for seconds.

Al Fresco can cater for 240 patrons, and is open from 12pm to 11pm, Monday to Saturday, and until 10.30pm on Sunday.

Al Fresco
1327 High Road,
Whetstone
Tel. 020 8445 8880