CHEZ Giovanni is among a handful of top Italian restaurants in Newport with a reputation that has been established over several decades of serving high-quality dishes in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere.

We visited on a quiet Wednesday night, and started with pt and toast, and prawn cocktail, which were well presented in generous portions and tasty.

For main courses we opted for a spaghetti carbonara and chicken romana.

The dishes were excellent. The chicken was tender and cooked in a tomato-based sauce that was rich without being overpowering. It was served with potatoes and vegetables.

The generous serving of spaghetti carbonara was also spot on, served in a creamy and tasty sauce.

A bottle of house red accompanied an excellent meal, in a relaxing atmosphere.

The bill came to £41 and it was well worth it. Booking may be advisable as we enter the Christmas season, with the restaurant being a favourite for festive evenings out.

It is easy to see why Chez Giovanni has maintained its excellent reputation over the years, and on our experience it will do so for many years to come. Gareth Phillips.