Jamie Oliver, Jamies Trattoria, Richmond

We decided to try Jamie's in Richmond as a last minute decision. Firstly we peered through the window and saw it was busy, glanced over the menu and figured we'd give it a shot. To be honest we weren't expecting much different from your usual Zizzi or Pizza Express. We were wrong. It was buzzing, people were enjoying themselves and the food being served was a hefty notch or two above the norm. 
From what I could see was being served, the food looked great. We had to wait for a table because we hadn't booked. But that was fine, we perched at the bar and ordered drinks, including one of Jamie's very own bespoke beers. To be fair it was the only beer available, very smart Mr Oliver, very smart.

Jamie's very own larger on tap

Staff were friendly, and accommodating. Once seated we ordered a round of tapas - not my favourite style of eating purely because that means I have to share, and if you've seen my review on The Duke in Richmond you'll see why. But alas, we ordered crispy squid, picante salami and mushroom arancini. All small (as tapas are) to be honest next time could have gone one more between the two of us. All very tasty, some the other tapas are more authentic and might not appeal to everyone's taste-buds (I've seen of few folk caught out by this), but I find them very enjoyable. More drinks then quite a long wait for out mains. Around 45 mins. 

Then the mains arrived Pork & Veal Tortellini with a side of Polenta chips - unfortunately they have since removed the P&V from the menu. Earlier, I eye'd another patrons spaghetti clams as they looked mouth watering, but was advised it had been all sold out, so I settled with the Prawn Linguine. Both dishes were pleasent enough, however, the pasta may, appear under cooked ie. proper Al Dente. However, for us it was delicious. Both dishes were very satisfying. 

Jamie's are always changing and adapting their menu's to suit, I have been back numerous times, I feel it is a good reasonable modern restaurant for local folk that doesn't require booking. Great for a last minute, mid week dinner. Another good Italian on short notice is Adesso on Hill Street who serve Siciliian food. Overall we were pleasantly surprised, the bill was reasonable (70 quid incl 2 beers 2 wines) and because of this we often return as it's good price in Richmond for the atmosphere, decor and tapas.


ps. Ask the staff about their viewfinder menu's for the kids (big kids and little kids)