Our family of four went there last night before going to see Matilda, and we were all thrilled with the restaurant, which descends from one of the city's oldest and most authentic Italian eateries.
Italian restaurants are less open to fusion cooking than French or other great cuisines -- odd given that most elements of Italian cuisine come from elsewhere (ie tomatoes and corn from Mexico).
But here there's lots of innovation and borrowing, which I really applaud.
The drinks list offers a range of craft ciders and beers, as well as Italian offerings. One of the appetizers is a variation on Indian sag paneer. One of the main dishes has Thai spicing.
Almost needless to say, the cooking is excellent. I had a pasta with dandelion pesto -- what a great use of the Italian foraging tradition. The mascarponi dessert had all four of us sharing and groaning in delight.
The service is formal, but it doesn't take long before it becomes friendly.
The seats are extraordinarily comfortable.
Altogether, a great place for a special evening.