Deano’s Trattoria is a gem of an Italian restaurant, providing a vibrant ‘Little Italy’ in the heart of Whickham. Step into the welcoming atmosphere, settle in amidst the striking pictures of Hollywood stars which adorn the coffee-coloured walls, and peruse their extensive menu over a glass a wine. With a mix of modern and classic background music playing softly, you immediately feel at home and ready to sample the wares of the kitchen.

The menu offers a vast array of starters including garlic bread, mushrooms with garlic dip and gamberoni – a sumptuous dish of pan-fried prawns with garlic, butter and white wine sauce that comes highly recommended. Starting your meal will present a tricky decision. For your main course, the menu is brimming with pizzas, pastas, fish, steaks, risotti and chicken. I opted for the chicken kiev and couldn’t have been happier with my choice. With homemade chips and salad on the side, the juicy chicken stuffed with garlic and parsley definitely hit the spot. For dessert why not spoil yourself and try the New York baked cheesecake for a melt-in-the-mouth taste of the East Coast, or a rich, moist chocolate fudge cake.

Finally, with a well-stocked bar and friendly staff who go out of their way to make your dining experience one to remember, Deano’s is an Italian restaurant that you really have to try.