Great Italian Restaurant

[Wifeofbath]

In case you haven't tried it, Rafaelle's in Sydenham High Road has got to be one of the friendliest and most helpful restaurants in the area. We moved to Sydenham recently and went a couple of times, we're addicted now, nothing is too much trouble for Rafaelle, if it's not on the menu or you fancy something a bit different to that which is, just ask. Music style sways between Smooth American Cool to more traditional Mediteranean/ Latino sounds. Rafaelle's 'tips it's hat' to the arts with specially listed theatrical nights - well advertised in advance. Local art adorns the walls, available to purchase and you just get the sense that its family and community centered. Children are welcomed and have their very own pizzas with funny faces or themes to order. Rafaelle is always charming and attentive, what more could you ask for?
Rafaelles gets 5 stars from me anytime.

[JulietP]

I always, always distrust a first-time poster who sings the praises of a company or restaurant and is just a little bit too effusive.

Are you connected to the owner or manager of the restaurant, by any chance??

[Wifeofbath]

Not at all, just a regular and very satisfied diner!

[G-Man]

I always, always distrust a first-time poster who sings the praises of a company or restaurant and is just a little bit too effusive.

Are you connected to the owner or manager of the restaurant, by any chance??

I can assure you, knowing Raff he would never put anyone up to that. He knows and checks this forum and has used it to promote events.

Good to hear your views Wife of... we love it too.

G-Man

[leenewham]

I can second that, Raff wouldn't do that. Normally we are doing it and I have made more than one post. I think it's just a satisfied customer.

[JulietP]

To atone for my suspicion about the OP's post, I tried out Trattoria Rafaelle for the first time tonight with my brother and sister-in law. The food was excellent and reasonably priced and the service impeccable. And they even managed to squeeze us in on a Saturday night with no reservation. Great stuff - I'll be back!

[stuart]

I'll second that. On my first visit I was astounded to be greeted by name by the waiter. Until I realised that his day job was our postman. And at a subsequent visit sitting all night nudging chairs with the person behind - and only on leaving, turning and realising it was Pussy Galore!

Anyway last night my SMT's family arrived unexpectantly from the north. They were hungry and we couldn't feed them. In desperation I suggested the Trat. The next day the former head of catering at a major Hotel chain said it was very good. That translates into being very, very good. The home of real pizzas, not like most served up in the UK.

Stuart

[Eagle]

Is this the reincarnation of The Monte Casino, fine restuarant in 70's.

[bigbadwolf]

Is this the reincarnation of The Monte Casino

Sì.

[Tim Lund]

Is this the reincarnation of The Monte Casino

Sì.

And Raff is the son of the guy who used to run it.

[amob]

Couldn't agree with OP more.

It's a great restaurant with great food.

Also Raff is a nice bloke, who incidentally is a great golf teacher, he has turned me into a player who can string shots together, rather than miss the ball every time! Ask him about it if you play; I'm sure he's looking for more pupils.