Da Mariù — Restaurant in Basingstoke and Deane

I have heard a lot of positive opinions about this place so we decided to try it. Honestly pizza 5/10, better than domino's but lacks flavour and the dough is just okay. There is other Italian restaurant in Basingstoke Chineham Park that beats this hands down. Do yourself a favour and go there for amazing authentic Italian food. Coffee is a half pint warm milk with coffee flavour - if starbucks coffee is better than the one in Italian restaurant then there is something seriously wrong. All coffees latte/cappucino/flat white have the same massive size. For reference of the restaurant I attach visual graph of what is the difference between flat white and latte - it's not just additional foam on latte. Flat white is a smaller, strong coffee with just a little milk 🙂 But they were "generous" enough to discount my coffee that I didn't drink by 50%. It s cozy restaurant, its a shame. Editing my review following the response of the business, if you won't take feedback seriously just argue it you will lose customers. You were not made aware of the coffee complaint only at the end. You were made aware of it before we got our food. I asked waitress if this is flat white, as its in massive cup and its very weak. She said yes, and all the coffees are the same size and next time she can make it stronger - how about rectify the complaint when the Customer is in the restaurant. Your business could have offered to make a new stronger drink right there, but my complain was ignored. If someone complains and you tell them "next time... " there will be no next time. Also please don't lie we were rude, we expressed our opinion. You have only taken off the coffee from the bill because my husband said he is not paying for it, so again please do not lie that you are "nice and polite". Your solution was to take 50% off the drink and make us pay the other 50%. The staff then muttered something under the noses and with anger redone the bill. Your staff has attitude problems and is rude and that is confirmed in the other poor reviews...

Children Families Accommodate I do not write this lightly, but I feel it needs to be said. My recent visit to the restaurant at Da MARIÙ Basingstoke was unfortunately an upsetting and unpleasant experience for both myself and my 4-year-old granddaughter — our first time out alone in an restaurant together, which we had been very much looking forward to.

When we arrived, the restaurant was not busy — only four tables were occupied — yet we were greeted coldly by a waiter who simply pointed and told us to “sit there.” The table she indicated was a very small, cramped two-seater squeezed between other diners. It was not only uncomfortable for us, but would have disrupted the people already eating nearby, who had their shopping bags and food spread out.

I politely asked if we could sit at one of the many available four-seater tables (at least six were visibly empty) as I was with a small child and needed a bit more space to help her. The waiter gave no consideration to this and walked away, apparently to consult her manager.

What followed surprised me even more — the young woman manager approached and simply said “YES” without any context. I was confused and responded with, “Pardon?” and again she said, “YES,” in a very dismissive tone. I explained again that I was with a child and would appreciate a slightly bigger table. Her response was a firm “No.”

At that point, I simply said, “Thank you for your customer service,” and left. My granddaughter and I were both disappointed. Thankfully, we were later welcomed warmly at another restaurant nearby, where the staff were polite and happy to accommodate families and children — quite the opposite of our experience at Da Mariu.

This review is not written out of anger, but in the hope that the management reflects on how they treat guests — especially families with young children. It was a sad start to what should have been a special outing.

Just be aware don’t feel kids or family...

Restaurant Review: Da Mariu in Basingstoke

Nestled in the heart of Basingstoke, Da Mariu offers an authentic Sicilian dining experience that is both heartwarming and delectable. This family-run gem captures the essence of Sicily, with a menu brimming with traditional dishes that are a testament to generations of culinary expertise.

Upon entering Da Mariu, you're greeted with a cozy, inviting atmosphere that feels like a home away from home. The rustic decor, adorned with Sicilian memorabilia, sets the stage for a delightful meal. The staff, evidently passionate about their heritage, provide exceptional service, making you feel like part of the family.

The menu is a vibrant celebration of Sicilian cuisine. Starting with the arancini, crispy on the outside and bursting with flavor inside, it’s clear that each dish is crafted with care. The pasta offerings, particularly the pasta alla Norma, highlight fresh, local ingredients paired with traditional Sicilian techniques. The seafood, especially the swordfish involtini, is a standout, perfectly cooked and seasoned.

What truly sets Da Mariu apart is their dedication to authentic, homemade recipes. The cannoli, a classic Sicilian dessert, is an absolute must-try—crispy shells filled with sweet ricotta, transporting your taste buds straight to the streets of Sicily.

Da Mariu isn't just a restaurant; it's an experience that immerses you in Sicilian culture and hospitality. Whether you're a local or just passing through Basingstoke, a visit to Da Mariu is sure to be a memorable...