Trattoria Panini — Restaurant in Leiden

The best things were the drink and atmosphere. Drink was good and fair price but it was a gin & tonic so can't really mess up there.

Pizza was ok but with so many pizza options available nearby it's hard to justify eating here. It's not bad, I just enjoy everywhere else more. I was expecting much better from the reviews and had enjoyed many of the other Italian places nearby much much more than this. Overall I believe this place to be overated and I'd advise trying elsewhere for a better experience.

Another side note. Service had mentioned the window seating was unavailable since it was reserved, but then the next customer to come in asked if window was available without reservation and told them there was no reservation there? Not sure as to why I wasn't allowed to sit window side but regardless it didn't bother me much, I just thought...

Edit: I've grown rather fond of their pizzas. One extra star.

I really wanted to like the pasta here because they make it fresh. After the first disappointing spaghetti aglio e olio (chewy and blistered) I went back twice, hoping it had all been just a fluke... Alas, it wasn't to be. (another aglio e olio with the same problems and a disgustingly salty spaghetti carbonara) The staff is very friendly though and the other items on the menu might be better, but...

Trattoria Panini in Leiden, where the only thing missing from the night… was photos of the food. Why? Because it was so good we forgot to take any. You’ll just have to taste it yourself.

Perfect location, plates full of Italian magic, and staff who make you feel like you’ve just walked into a friend’s home. Big shout-out to the owner and his (almost?) wife, you two bring as much flavour to the place as the kitchen does.

Already counting the days until our...