Easy to spot with its smart black exterior and gold lettering above the welcoming big windows, there' s always a buzz at this charming Italian restaurant which is run with warmth and professionalism by owners Therese Maguire (head chef) and Jenny Quinn (front of house). They bought the business together in 2009, and their extensive experience in the hospitality sector at home and in the United States shows in an obvious passion for quality and customer service.
The split level room has a contemporary feel with large paintings and mirrors, and a semi open kitchen adding interest at the back.The ambience is warm and welcoming from the outset - attentive staff are quick to greet and seat arriving guests, offering menus and iced water, and explaining the specials.
Offering authentic Italian cuisine in stylish surroundings, La Rivista appeals to a wide range of customers including groups, families and corporate occasions, with a well planned combination of menus offered at different times. Menus cater for all dietary requirements (in particular gluten-free), and there is an extensive wine list to match.
Families are especially well catered for, with a kids activity menu offering a wide choice of imaginative dishes, a kids’ corner that allows parents to enjoy their meal while the little ones are fed and entertained, and Family Fun Sunday on the last Sunday of the month - when they have a children’s entertainer in to paint nails, faces and body art.
On the main menus, you'll find all the Italian favourites - classic starters, pasta dishes and a wide range of well-made pizzas - and other popular dishes like a good sirloin steak, or lamb shanks.
You might begin with Bantry Bay mussels tossed in a white wine, garlic and cream sauce served with house made Foccacia-style bread, for example, or a big-flavoured grilled Cooleeney goats cheese served over baked Clonakilty black pudding with house made apple chutney, mixed leaves and Highbank Orchard apple syrup.
The well-presented (and carefully seasoned) mains could include fresh hake fillet in a crispy golden Costello’s pale ale batter, served with house made tartar sauce, crushed peas and smoked fries or a house special of baked beef lasagne with fresh egg pasta, homemade Bolognese sauce, nutmeg Bechamel, Mozzarella and fresh Parmesan.
Great desserts may include a Crunchie bar cheesecake, Glenowen Farm ice creams and comforting warm apple and berry crumble.
The high standard of cooking means that whatever you choose it is sure to please, and the kindly priced wine list offers a good range of sizes (bottle, half bottle, carafe and glass) and is well chosen to suit the food.
There is a lovely ambience to this customer-focused restaurant and the reasons for its popularity are easy to see.
