Montecassino Italian

[pocketpip]

We were planning to try Gurkha's for the first time on Friday night, but it was so busy we didn't want to wait for a table, and ended up trying Montecassino's Italian, which is opposite the Dolphin. It was quite empty in there, and I really don't understand it, becasue the food/service/value was fantastic!

I cook a lot and am constantly disappointed by below par meals when eating out, but this really was lovely.

We had a delicious aubergine, tomato and parmesan bake, lasagne/amatriciana, and tiramisu and all were delicious and very reasonably priced. The chap in there who was doing the tables was so friendly and welcoming, and the atmosphere was really nice despite it being pretty empty.

It seems a real shame that more people weren't supporting this restaurant, and I don't understand why it wasn't bursting at the seams!

[leenewham]

Glad to have the review, I have thought of going in there but it just looks so awful from the outside. That's probably the problem, which is a problem with a lot of the high street. It has decent shops, it just doesnt look like it does.

[poppy]

I definately agree about the high street having pretty good shops but the bad pavements, mismatched street furniture and ugly shop fronts distract from this. Have you seen the state of some of the railings? Hopefully if the bid for regeneration funds goes through this will change. Will try and try that Italian restaurant some time soon...we also get disappointed by low quality grub served up in many restaurants so we can't be bothered eating out that much.

[Julsb]

Thanks for reminding me about this restaurant. I haven't been in as it looks so neglected from the outside.

[tongue_in_cheek]

Blimey. THings must have changed. I went there about 4 years and it was just dreadful. I felt like I had just walked into my Grandma's house for dinner, and she's been dead for 20 years. I can't remember what we had but the food was bland and and the wine was luke warm (white). THe bill for 2 came to about 80 quid. If you want a treat head for Joanna's in Crystal Palace. Or if you want local go to the Wimpy.

[Big Ben]

We've had excellent food at Montecassino's over the years - as Pocketpip says, the aubergine/tomato/parmesan bake is superb and their cooking of all the classic Italian dishes terrific. As for the wine, I would recommend a gutsy Barolo or Montepulciano - both of which feature on their extensive list.

[Si Blee]

Went there last night and we all thought the food was excellent. Not pricey either. £80 for 4 people, starters, main and wine is very reasonable.

Can't understand how it survives, we were the only people in there all night. Apparently Friday and Saturday nights are busy but even so one would expect a few people in on a Thursday!

[petzlux]

We have been a couple of times for dinner, as well as a couple of times for food just across at the Dolphin. I must say in terms of value for money, Montecassino beats the Dolphin. The food is good quality, with good portions.

Montecassino has all the classic italian dishes, and a cosy "traditional" italian atmosphere. Staff were very friendly and welcoming. The owner has been running the place since the 70's, so he must have been doing something right to survive all along this time.

[raymondus]

I am glad that people seem to enjoy this place. I too have been put off by the exterior but I shall give the place a go.

[squig]

Great to hear. So lovely when people tell you about the nice places- I agree it doesn't look so inviting so I haven't gone in yet but now I will!

[orgone]

Went Saturday night with friends to see what it was like having taken notice of it several times since moving here 3 yrs ago. Have to say we had a really good time and the food was very good. The restaurant was more than 1/2 full and everyone seemed to be enjoying themselves. The proprietor was very charming and spent time with each of the tables, even though he was run off his feet due to missing serving staff. He says they've been there for 37 years! I'd go again - it's definitely on par with That's Amore, which puts me off slightly because of the possibility that the owner will sing All in all we have two very serviceable Italians in Sydenham. Yes, you will get more authentic and possibly fresher food in town but will pay considerably more (and have to catch the late train home with the drunks) and you can do a *lot* worse in town, too, with those mouldering dives full of black-vested vampires. And you can walk home. Go, but not all at once and leave a table for 2 free, ok?