Lorenzo's Restaurant — Restaurant in England

Really wanted to enjoy this new restaurant and have it in our "to visit again" list, but found it disappointing unfortunately.

We turned up just before 12 and had to wait for the waitress to check with the chef they could serve us as he was still prepping. We were the only ones there. Totally understand prepping takes time, but when you're open you're open, so we felt as if we were being intrusive. They have an extensive vegetarian/vegan menu, this needs displaying outside with the regular menu, as I wouldn't have asked if I were on my own.

It felt expensive for tapas size dishes and when choosing somewhere to eat we consider what we feel is value for money. For others with a generous budget, the price probably wouldn't be a problem, but about 4-5 heaped tablespoons of risotto for £11 and 2 slices of breaded aubergine with tomato sauce for £9 is way outside of reasonable for us.

The pork belly was a good portion size in comparison to the others for the price, though it was tough. The waitress was kind and would have offered a steak knife should we asked, but it would have still been chewy.

Decor wise, I work in building maintenance and noticed a few things in the bathroom that need tidying up. Not something I'd usually mention but when pricing is as it is, you really do expect refined.

Wishing the establishment all the best in their future endeavours, and given the other reviews perhaps we just found them...

I knew before I arrived that I would have a good time here. I rang to enquire about eating at 8:45 as it was the only time my partner could do but didn't want to inconvenience the staff. The lady on the phone was so friendly and welcoming and said it would be a pleasure. I then explained my train arrives at around 8:30 so I'd like to get there then if it was okay and she said they'd keep me company which was so lovely! I'm always nervous walking into places I've never tried before but I felt immediately at ease.

My partner and I had some lovely food here but really the star is the service. The lady that served us (the same person as over the phone) was an absolute pleasure and a real credit to the business. I'm so sorry I didn't catch her name but we didn't collect a receipt (if it was on there). But we came on the 12th June if you could pass on our kindest regards to her.

I will definitely come again. The bill was less than we expected and the food was...

Are you looking for professional restaurant fast service, with a standardised menu to got to before a night out? This is NOT for you! If you're looking for a cosy and discrete place to spend the evening with loved ones, then you will absolutely walk away HOURS LATER feeling as though you have been invited into a genuine Italian family's home, and been given the honour of becoming part of their family. We had the joy of attending on a night when the fabulous owner Lorenzo had given his staff the evening off - he was our waiter, cleaner, chef, barman and gallant host for ourselves and other diners, creating a fabulous customer-centric environment that made us feel special. I won't mention pricing compared to other venues - I walked away feeling it...