The words “Passeggiata has the best food in the WIRLD” have just been scribbled on the glass shopfront window of this neighbourhood Italian by a very cute 10-year-old diner with a white pen.

It’s been three years since chef-owner Nigel Ward (last seen at Sagra, Uccello and Lucio’s) brought his straight-shooting personality to this sunny upstairs/downstairs diner in Waverley’s high street, and it’s very much a product of his passionate love affair with Italy and made-from-scratch mentality, so don’t skip the pasta, whether it’s pappardelle with braised pork hock, or a beguiling gnocchi with prawns, cherry tomatoes and ’nduja.

And keep an eye out for Liguria’s chickpea-based farinata, turned into a premium appetiser with oozy cheese and a fold of ham; it could just be the best snack in the WIRLD (or at least, Waverley).

Best for: Aperitivi, snacks and pasta with mates.

Good Food reviews are booked anonymously and paid independently. A restaurant can’t pay for a review or inclusion in the Good Food Guide.