This rather charming independent eatery offers a break from the chain restaurants that dominate Victoria.

The Venue
2 Amici isn’t the most exciting of restaurants based on initial impressions. A backlit sign appears almost tacky and the green frontage a little dull although large front windows are a bonus. Inside, the decor is equally simple with yellow coloured walls lined with mirrors and an array of pictures. The tables are set a little too close together and adorned with white tablecloths, which don’t quite fit with its overall aesthetic. The bar is rather dark with a row of neat stools nestled against it. Overall it’s a perfectly comfortable spot, just a little uninspiring.

The Atmosphere
Depending on when you visit 2 Amici it can be on the quiet side – it faces stiff competition from lots of big high street chains nearby. However, that’s where it benefits. The staff are friendly and welcoming and actually seem happy to see you rather than trying to stuff you full of food and get you out in as short a time as humanly possible.

The Food
The menu is pretty good at 2 Amici, comprising authentic Italian dishes. The prices are a little high with a delicious starter of fresh, creamy buffalo mozzarella with rocket and rich, salty parma ham coming in at just over £8, but it is in keeping with the area and the typical tourist prices that dominate it. Mains are better pitched with a vegetarian option of plump, slightly doughy gnocchi with sweet tomato, creamy mozzarella cheese and peppery basil priced at under £9. Alternatively, the al dente linguini pasta served with a generous helping of fresh crabmeat and slightly sweet, very well-seasoned cherry tomato sauce costs just above the £10 mark for a decent sized portion. If you come here and just eat a main each – more than adequate for a heavy lunch or light dinner – then it’s a very cost effective meal out.

The Drink
2 Amici cares about its wine selection – as you’d expect from an Italian restaurant. They offer a selection of award winning wine and some more unusual Italian bottles. And the prices are reasonable. If you’re celebrating, a glass of Prosecco isn’t much more than a fiver and is a very drinkable version of the sparkling wine. Their house bottles start at just £14 and increase to over £70 so there’s something to suit all budgets. If the grape really isn’t your thing then their only beer is Peroni.

The Last Word
2 Amici is understated and you’d not be blamed for strolling right past it oblivious to its presence. However, it does make a pleasant break from the overpowering presence of high street chain restaurants.

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