Monday 17 February 2014

Il Mascalzone, Putney

Putney has been forever popular with young families, the thirty-something set and our Antipodean cousins; indeed most mid-twenties Londoners will have paid at least one visit to the dark and dingy Fez Club in the basement of a brightly lit Foxtons branch.


But cometh the sunshine, cometh the hordes to Putney and its vast array of riverside bars and restaurants. The Boathouse and the Star & Garter are the two most popular, but honourable mention must go to the less frequented, yet pleasing Bricklayer's Arms, located at the end of a quiet residential street off Lower Richmond Rd.

Indeed, spend a sunny Sunday or bank holiday Monday at one of these Putney watering holes and end your day in Il Mascalzone, soaking in the somewhat cheesy Italian decor and even cheesier authentic Italian pizzas.


On the face of it, Il Mascalzone looks like it would be more suited to a Brit-inhabited waterfront on the Costa del Hell; but we at the daterbase are of the opinion that books (and indeed Italian pizzerias) should not be judged by their covers or tacky sign and shop-front. Step inside and the friendly staff will instantly make you feel at home.

The previously-mentioned decor is eclectic, although the Mario Ballotelli-themed pop art adorning the back wall is certainly a talking point. Quirky Italian art aside, the menu is a beast. Thirty pizzas to choose from, and twenty more pasta dishes and other main courses mean you will definitely be spoilt for choice. 

Despite this, the restaurant is very reasonably priced, and the boisterous atmosphere will mean that you will be hard-pushed to find a more suitable venue for a quick eat on the High Street. The wine list and choice of beers is somewhat limited in comparison to the food menu, but the real reason you came here is the pizzas!

Walk off your full stomachs with a romantic stroll across Putney Bridge as you stagger your way to the tube, sunburt, and a peculiar image of Mario Ballotelli etched into your memory.

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