Stepping into La Lambretta, you feel like you’ve left the quaint village of Fordingbridge and entered a restaurant in Italy. Owner Marco Stefanini started this venture in October 2017 with the aim of bringing genuine, authentic Italian food to a small Hampshire village. The food, wine and service are all centred around the feel of a typical Italian restaurant.
The wood-fired pizzas are particularly popular, with the head chef using only traditional Italian ingredients. Just as popular and tasty is the mixed Italian salami starter – imported from Italy and served cold. For a main, you can’t beat the tiger prawns cooked in a rich garlic and white wine sauce. Round things off with the classic Italian pick-me-up – tiramisu.
The wine list has been carefully curated to showcase the best Italian wine. Italian lager is also on offer, and a locally brewed pale ale from neighbouring Ringwood gives a nod to the venue’s countryside location. La Lambretta is conveniently situated just across from a public car park in the heart of a village that’s known as the northern gateway to the New Forest. This independent Italian restaurant is truly something special. The attentive and friendly staff are knowledgeable without being over-bearing, making this a perfect Italian restaurant.