The story
Lovitaly operates as an independent, family-run establishment on Ringwood's Market Place, bridging the gap between a neighbourhood trattoria and a full-service deli. The kitchen builds its menu around traditional homemade rustic Italian cuisine, balancing imported staples with fresh produce gathered from the surrounding New Forest. This approach grounds the cooking in locality while maintaining the authenticity readers have praised in their recent Good Food Guide recommendation. Morning service extends this ethos, serving eggs sourced directly from Fluffetts Farm on the forest edge alongside freshly ground Italian coffees and homemade cakes.
Antipasti plates highlight precise presentation, such as the 'houmous pistachio' served with super-thin Sardinian carasau bread or a salad tricolore artistically topped with balsamic pearls inside a basil leaf vessel. The pasta work proves robust and properly al dente; the tagliatelle arrives loaded with meaty New Forest oyster mushrooms swimming in a creamy truffle sauce. Another standout is the rigatoni carbonara, which incorporates generous chunks of smoky, fatty guanciale that cut through the richness. Portions remain mighty across the board, encouraging diners to share starters or mains to sample more of the kitchen's output, including handcrafted pizzas made with ingredients imported from Italy.
Guests gather in a warm, inviting space described as quiet and romantic, ideal for both casual lunches and evening dinners. The venue accommodates larger parties through a dedicated private dining room and hosts regional events throughout the year.
Drinks complement the food with a fully licensed extensive wine list featuring selections like the Frappato IGP 'Roceno' from Sicily. Staff regularly recommend the Peach Prosecco Bellini, a vibrant aperitif that sets the tone for the meal.
Recognition
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