The décor to this Italian restaurant is deceptively understated: white walls quickly highlight the colours of that flood in from the pavement-side conservatory, giving the effect of a living Jack Vettriano painting. The colours are supplied by the locals who have commandeered this restaurant, drawn in by fabulous food at very reasonable prices (three courses for £21). Traditional Italian food is served with simple elegance, reflecting the restaurant itself: vitello tonnato is served with green apple slices, lobster linguini is served pleasingly al dente and fritto misto offers crisp batter and succulent seafood. Italians are renowned for their love of wines and Osteria Stecca is no exception, offering a wide range, with around 50% of them being under £30. South Hampstead is the nearest Tube Station to this Italian haven.