Fra Noi, Lyndhurst (From Daily Echo)

Fra Noi, Lyndhurst

11:46am Wednesday 3rd February 2010 in Restaurant Reviews By Lorelei Reddin, Entertainments Editor

EXPECT this restaurant to reach for the stars.

With an entry in the new Michelin Guide 2010, you can guarantee those Michelin inspectors are already keeping an eye on what’s happening at Fra Noi.

And quite rightly so - it’s an absolute gem.

This authentic family-run Italian trattoria opened in December 2008 and is already attracting a loyal following from the Forest and further afield to sample the stunning cuisine from the northern region of Emilia Romagna, using the best and freshest ingredients, often locally sourced.

My dining companion and I felt immediately welcome at this stylish yet relaxed establishment where we dined as the Italians do – extremely well and over four courses.

As antipasti, I opted for the light yet flavoursome Warm Pecorino Cheese Flan, while my friend savoured her delicious Beetroot Ravioli stuffed with Goat’s Cheese.

The pasta course was a delight with handmade free range egg pasta made on the premises and topped with Lamb Ragu for myself and in parcels filled with Parma Ham mousse for my companion.

For main course, I opted for local free range Beef Carpaccio, which was tender, succulent and beautifully marinated, before being topped with shavings of fresh mushrooms and crispy Parmesan cheese. My friend adored her Peperone Ripieno – pepper stuffed with mozzarella, taleggio and basil pesto served with perfectly cooked roast potatoes.

We chose to share the recommended desert of Tortino al Cioccolato, a cake with milk chocolate oozing out of the middle to mix with the white chocolate sauce, which more than lived up to expectations.

An exceptional wine list, supplied by the sommelier to Heston Blumenthal’s Fat Duck, complements the fabulous menu at this delightful eatery.

Menu, priced £28.50.

Contact: Fra Noi, High Street, Lyndhurst, Hampshire, SO43 7BJ, Tel: 023 8028 3745, info@ franoi.co.uk, franoi.co.uk