Rosanna’s in Berkhamsted

Editor Clare Swatman tried out the restaurant formerly known as I Love Food…

When I Love Food on Lower Kings Road closed for refurbishment, I was looking forward to seeing what it would look like when it reopened. Well, I wasn’t expecting this!

The newly-named Rosanna’s is still run by the same family, but this is something entirely different. The interior – and the exterior – is beautiful; painted in a deep blue with accents of red, pink and gold, it feels a world away from the lively coffee shop/restaurant it was before. This restaurant means business.

Upstairs is stunning too; the brand new terrace is the perfect place for cocktails on a sunny evening. It’s just a shame it was pouring with rain when I was there!

I went at lunchtime and was pleased to see the restaurant filling up until the downstairs was completely at capacity.

On to the food. I Love Food did have a lovely menu, with full flavours and delicious home-cooked Sicilian food. And Rosanna’s does the same – only this time it all feels a bit more ‘grown up’, which I like.

I chose gnocchi with a rich tomato sauce, although the vegetarian options were plenty so I was spoilt for choice – not something I’m used to! I also chose deep fried courgette as a side dish. My friend Sarah was tempted by the fish, but in the end chose a chicken burger.

The food didn’t disappoint. The portions were generous, the flavours were rich and the presentation was immaculate.

The atmosphere was buzzing too – no mean feat for a rainy Tuesday lunchtime!

Rosanna’s is the perfect place for a casual lunch, intimate dinner or a meal with friends – and remember they only serve breakfast at weekends now.