At Dal Patino, authenticity is the secret ingredient. The menu draws inspiration from family favourites, transporting you from the picturesque valleys of Picinisco Italy to the cosy ambiance of Musselburgh Scotland.

Whether you’re craving classic pasta dishes, wood-fired pizzas, or delectable desserts, this family-run gem has something for everyone.

Antonio (Nino), Owner and Head Chef, was born in Picinisco, a small village in the Lazio region of Italy and over the last 17 years, he has worked in Italian restaurants in Scotland. His dream was to open his own restaurant, and with the help of his wife Anna Maria and their three children Monica, Marco and Stefano, Dal Patino opened it’s door in 2017.

The restaurant is small, cosy and packed with character. Let me transport you to the sun-drenched regions of Southern Italy, where the essence of traditional Italian cuisine comes alive. Imagine a rustic Italian restaurant, nestled in the heart of the countryside, reminiscent of Nonna’s cosy kitchen.

There’s a warm ambiance about this place. As you step inside, the scent of freshly cooked food envelops you. The walls are adorned with vintage family photos, there’s a weathered fire place, wooden floors and worn wooden tables, inviting you to sit and savour.

The menu celebrates simplicity. Imagine platters of bruschetta drizzled with unfiltered extra virgin olive oil, ribbons of pasta with slow-cooked ragù, and bubbled pizzas topped with buffalo mozzarella and basil leaves.

We tucked into a few sharing plates to start followed by our own mains.

BURRATA AL PESTO DI POMODORINI SECCHI (£8.50) - Burrata, basil, olive oil, chopped pistachio and a sundried tomato pesto

PANE E OLIO (v) (£3.50) - Homemade crusty bread served with olive oil.

A gem is their Burrata al Pesto di Pomodorini Secchi—a harmonious blend of creamy burrata, fragrant basil, and the rich flavours of sundried tomato pesto. The burrata outer shell is delicate, while the interior oozes with lusciousness. The burrata rests like a treasure in the centre of the dish, its creamy heart spilling out and you can’t wait to cut it open.

Sometimes, it’s the simplest things that steal our hearts. I loved the theatre of Pane E Olio dish. The Pane e Olio is a humble yet irresistible offering—a celebration of crusty bread and the liquid gold that is olive oil. Served piping hot inside a brown paper bag. Tip out the slices of hot bread and smother them in olive oil or dunk them in olive oil. My only criticism is that the olive oil is served in sachets - and I definitely do prefer olive oil served in a proper decanter!

FOCACCIA AL POMODORO (v) (£7) - Focaccia with cherry tomatoes, garlic, basil and olive oil. Imagine warm, pillowy focaccia, kissed by olive oil, and adorned with vibrant cherry tomatoes. The bread is golden brown, with a soft interior and a crispy crust. It’s the canvas for a flavour symphony whilst the cherry tomatoes are wee bursts of sweetness adding colour and juiciness like edible jewels.

PACCHERI CALABRESE CON ‘NDUJA (£12.50) - Paccheri with ‘nduja (spicy, spreadable Italian sausage), tomato sauce, spinach, basil and aged ricotta cheese. Let the ‘nduja work its magic. Each forkful is a rollercoaster of flavours.

TAGLIATELLE AL RAGU EMILIANO (£13) - Tagliatelle in a traditional bolognese sauce. A traditional dish, slow-cooked with love. Their ragu rich sauce is cradled in these silky strands of pasta so that the flavours combine in every bite. This was slightly over salted but we still demolished the dishes.

CALZONE CLASSICO (£13.50) - Folded pizza filled with mozzarella, salami, ham, mushrooms and a touch of tomato sauce. This is ginormous and I feel it would be what a pizza would look like if it was a hug! Deep filled with all the best ingredients and plenty of cheese.

After indulging in those delightful carbs, dessert seemed like a distant dream. However, if I had to choose, the Panna Cotta or the classic Tiramisu would have won my heart.

As for the libations, while my Birre Moretti was a great choice, I’d have gladly raised a glass of chilled Pinot Grigio or a fruity Prosecco to complete the Italian experience at Dal Patino.

I’m thrilled that a birthday celebration led me to Dal Patino! Although it wasn’t on my radar, I’m genuinely delighted we dined here. The food was unbelievably delicious, the service friendly and efficient, and every bite truly hit the spot.

THINGS TO NOTE ABOUT DAL PATINO

• They cater for vegetarians, vegans and gluten free - you just have to let them know

• They are not dog friendly

• They are wheelchair accessible

• They are located at the far end of the High Street towards Prestonpans and Lorreto School. Plenty of free parking available

• No26 bus from Princes Street stops about 4 minute walk away

Dal Patino, 49A High Street, Musselburgh, EH21 7AB www.dalpatino.co.uk

My Spoon Award : Silver Spoon 8/10

I booked and paid for my dining experience at Dal Patino. Food and drink were bought for by me and not complimentary in exchange for a review. Views are very much my own.

TartanSpoon is an Award-winning blog that brings you reviews and recommendations on the very best places to eat, drink and stay in Edinburgh, Scotland and beyond.

Adele is a writer, reviewer, judge and panelist living in Edinburgh. She sits on the Committee for the Guild of Food Writers (Scottish Events),  is a Great Taste Judge for the Guild of Fine Food, Scottish Bakers and a Judge for the Gin Co-operative awards.

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