Vesuvius Restaurant

Head down to Lower Stone Street and you'll find yourself in a proper neighbourhood Italian spot that's been doing the basics brilliantly for years. The kitchen takes itself seriously without being pretentious—expect wood-fired pizzas with blistered crusts, fresh pasta that doesn't taste like it came from a packet, and sauces that simmer properly. It's the kind of place locals return to because the food's consistently good and the room has warmth to it, whether you're squeezing in mid-week or booking ahead for the weekend rush.