I would certainly agree with Simon's recommendation of RIVA in Barnes. (an AA GIll fav. if I remember - not sure if that constitutes a recommendation here!) Although it's been over a year since I was there last, the food and service were outstanding and the robust italian cooking is a nice change from the style that dominates many Italian restaurants. Alternatively, you could try Phoenix Bar & Grill, 162-164 Lower Richmond Road (SW15). We've not eaten there yet, but it's on our hit list. Franco Taruschio (ex Walnut Tree) is consultant and his protege Simon Kealy is chef. I seem to recall that it opened to pretty good reviews.
