La Capanna

La Capanna is an Italian restaurant in the heart of Kingston, serving a broad menu of pizza, pasta and other Italian dishes in a relaxed, unfussy setting. The room combines timber details with a rustic feel, while streetside tables give diners the option of sitting out in the neighbourhood. Its evening service runs from Tuesday to Saturday, opening from 6pm until late.

The menu covers plenty of ground without moving far from familiar Italian cooking. Starters include an antipasto selection of cured meats, cheeses, olives, marinated vegetables and rockmelon, as well as focaccia, bruschetta and crostini. The pizzas all use a tomato base and range from straightforward choices such as Margherita and Pepperoni to combinations including the Campagnola, with prosciutto, rocket and shaved parmesan, and the Formaggi, made with four types of cheese. Calzone is also available in traditional and vegetarian versions.

Pasta is a major part of the offering, with options spanning tomato, cream and seafood sauces. Standouts on the menu include Spaghetti alla Siciliana with prawns and mussels, Spaghetti Marinara with a selection of seafood, Fettuccine ai Funghi Misti with mixed mushrooms, and the house-style Carbonara Regina with bacon, peas, mushrooms, blue vein cheese, white wine, cream and egg. Lasagna, ravioli and tortellini add familiar choices, while the Frutti di Mare section includes mussels and prawns served with toasted Italian bread.

The restaurant describes its approach as affordable, simple and delicious, and its long history in Kingston is part of the appeal. Reviews featured on the site praise the pasta, atmosphere and rustic interior, with diners describing the food as honest and Italian in style. With pizza, pasta, salads, seafood and a banquet option listed across the site, La Capanna can suit a casual dinner for two, a family meal or a group looking to share dishes. It is also a practical choice for diners who prefer plenty of choice rather than a tightly focused menu.