Whether you’re looking for an impressive Italian restaurant for an intimate first date or an exuberant atmosphere as a backdrop to a fun-filled evening with friends, Sazio is the answer to your prayers.

These two fantastic restaurants are conveniently situated – one in the heart of St Albans opposite the clock tower and the other on the historic High Street in Harpenden – and offer authentic Italian venues of contemporary style. The chic restaurants are an Italian food-lover’s dream, with menus that incorporate a multitude of flavours and comprise only the best ingredients imported directly from Italy. The distinctive Italian classics – comprehensive selections of antipasti, pizza and pasta – tempt diners, alongside superb salads and a range of meat and fish dishes from the grill. Begin your meal with a taste of the sea; steamed fresh mussels are served with a choice of white wine, cream and garlic or tomato, garlic and chilli (£5.90). Other starters include a moreish mezzaluna croccante – fried pastry parcels with melted mozzarella cheese served with a chilli or mayonnaise dip (£4.90) – and bianchetti – deep-fried whitebait served with tartar sauce (£4.80).

Main courses include an extensive selection for vegetarians, with no compromising on taste – try the campagnia pizza, topped with goat’s cheese, grilled aubergine, courgettes, tomato and mozzarella (£9.50). Meat-eaters will thrive on the options from the grill – choose a 28-day-matured prime 10oz rib-eye steak, served with french fries and peppercorn sauce (£15.90), or a seafood risotto with lobster, crayfish tails and wilted baby spinach (£13.90). All dishes are presented beautifully and cooked to perfection by the knowledgeable chefs. In addition to the à la carte menu there are fantastic daily specials, which give an ever-changing choice to Sazio’s many loyal customers.

Your evening doesn’t need to end when your meal does; instead relax in the elegant surroundings and sip on fruity cocktails or tipples from the extensive wine list. Sazio is perfect for small and large parties alike, and offers everything you need to let your hair down Italian style.