Bella Italia - Oxford

You know what you're getting when you walk into this George Street spot, and sometimes that's exactly what you want. The pasta portions are generous, the pizzas arrive bubbling hot, and the staff actually seem to care about whether you're having a decent time. It's not going to change your life, but when you're wandering around the city centre with hungry tourists in tow or need somewhere that won't terrify your nan, this ticks all the boxes. The location helps enormously - you're right in the thick of things between Cornmarket and New Inn Hall Street, perfect for a quick bite between shopping or before catching something at the New Theatre. Sure, it's a chain, but it's a competent one that knows its audience and delivers consistently.