La Famiglia
12-14 Victoria Road
Hale, WA15 9AD

Telephone 0161 929 9626

My companion and I decided to sample the fayre at La Famiglia, the new Italian in Hale Village. La Famiglia has relocated from Hale Barns and has an airy feel with the kitchen in full view and authentic Italian service - complete with the lingo. It’s heartening when all those hours spent listening in vain to “Teach Yourself Italian” mean being able to pronounce “grazie” and “prego” with a passable roll of the tongue!

We had come at lunchtime on a weekday and were greeted enthusiastically by the staff and seated in the window; able to watch the comings and goings by the station. As usual we settled for a bottle of Pinot Grigio with a jug of iced water.

The choice from the specials board was more than enough to satisfy us with a good selection of starters and mains.

I settled for crayfish for a starter which was packed full of juicy tails set off nicely by a rocket salad and my companion had black pudding - not traditional Italian food but tasty nevertheless.

For mains we both opted for fish. My sea bass fillets came with green beans and new potatoes with a delicious tapenade and piquant capers whilst my companion opted for the cod with goat’s cheese. The fish had a beautiful translucent flesh reflecting its freshness, although we were not sure about the combination of the goat’s cheese with it. Portions were just about right for our lunchtime appetites, although the addition of some tasty french fries were appreciated.

For desert we indulged in profiteroles, an Italian classic which never fails to satisfy, and homemade creme brulee, followed by cappuccino coffees.

All in all, a very pleasent lunch with good service, although the price was a little on the high side at £80.

Will we return?

Yes, to practice more Italian with the obliging staff!

Our verdict

Atmosphere: 7/10
Service: 8/10
Food: 8/10
Value for Money: 7/10