Italian food created from Welsh ingredients but prepared with Mediterranean flair and know-how - Mediterraneo at the Boat House, on Penarth's quaint beachside esplanade, oozes Italian charm.

Originally built by the Admiralty at the turn of the century, the restaurant still retains much of the original boat house character, and offers a delicious selection of authentic Italian flavours, friendly service, and of course, sea views across the Bristol Channel. The breathtaking photographs of Welsh coastlines and the impressive seafood selection provide nautical novelty, while rustic decor, soft Italian music and the fresh aromas of herbs and oils stay true to the Mediterranean feel.

Also available to take away, the menu includes a wide array of starters, including insalata Caprese - sliced buffalo mozzarella and tomato drizzled with an oregano and basil dressing; and funghi con aglio - mushrooms in a rich garlic and white wine sauce. The main-course menu is comprehensive and includes everything from meat and vegetarian pastas and pizzas to full seafood platters, veal, lamb and steak. Tantalising offerings include Mediterraneo brodetto - the chef's speciality of mussels, king prawns, calamari, hake and cockles smothered in a tomato, garlic and herb sauce; coscia d'agnello - lamb shank cooked with demi-glace, tomato, onions and peppers; and vegetable risotto, which exudes homemade flavours. Diners can also create their own pizzas by choosing from a variety of toppings. If you have room for dessert, try the delicious tiramisu or pannacotta.

On weekdays there is a special lunch menu. The set menu boasts ten starters and 23 main course dishes to choose from, including fusilli pollo e piselli, which sees fusilli pasta with diced chicken and peas in a white wine, garlic and cream sauce. Alfresco dining is highly recommended on the pretty terrace - perfect for a lazy summer lunch.