It’s time to ditch the clichéd restaurants this Valentines Day and opt for something that offers good service, a warm ambience and above all, bloody great food.

If you’re planning to have an evening that doesn’t involve rose sellers or an overdose of helium heart shaped balloons and cheesy love songs playing the background, then take note of my three recommendations for this Valentines Day.

Assaggetti, 71 Haymarket, London, assaggetti.co.uk

A medium size restaurant that looks quite big, due to its high ceilings and huge chandelier, however don’t be fooled as it is not your typical bling bling Italian restaurant, it’s the opposite, warm, friendly and down to earth.

Assaggetti, part of the Getti group of restaurants offers a tapas style menu with solo dishes and sharing plates.

The modern decor and cool jazz music sets a great atmosphere and it’s definitely not loud, so expect to hear your partner talk (or even pop the question if you’re lucky) without having to shout.

With so many dishes to choose from my top recommendations would be the handmade spaghettoni & duck ragu (£4.75), Tusan sausage (£5) and tuna tartare (£5.75). With so much to choose from, the best idea is to pick four dishes each and share.

The food here is undoubtedly some of most delicious I have had in a long time. The flavours of the Duck Ragu just pop in your mouth and leave you salivating for more. The Tuscan sausages are full of fresh herbs and have the right balance of seasoning and the wild mushroom risotto…well book now and find out, just don’t leave it too late!

With friendly service and a huge sharing selection, this place is one not to be missed. It won’t break the bank either.

To book a table contact assaggetti on: 020 7839 3939

Verdict:

9/10 for food

7/10 for atmosphere

8/10 for service

7/10 for cost