IN THE restaurant trade, the word 'cosy' can too often be a euphemism for cramped. But staff at Pavarotti's can justly reclaim the word to sum up what is a truly welcoming and laid-back experience - even when the small restaurant's popularity means it is packed to the rafters.

Everything about the Italian eatery in Shanklin's old village oozes charm and it is one of those intimate places that will see you chatting away with the people at the next table like old friends.

You get the sense that even if you took your partner there for a quiet, intimate meal during which you planned to pop the big question you'd still end up celebrating with both the staff and your fellow diners.

That's if those who've managed to bag a place can tear themselves away from their meals - which are the stuff of cravings.

I opted for deep-fried mushrooms stuffed with blue cheese and served with garlic mayonnaise while my vegan partner had the avocado with onions in vinaigrette.

Both were tasty but the real treat came during the main course.

From a wide-ranging menu of pizzas, pastas, meat and fish dishes, I eventually went for the prime Scottish sirloin steak, pan-fried with onions and mushrooms and served with a mushroom and cream sauce, which was cooked to perfection.

Pavarotti's serves up portions the wide-girthed tenor would have to think twice about tackling. The mounds of vegetables and salad put most other restaurants' measly helpings to shame.

The super-size policy also applied to my partner's penne arrabiata which boasted a satisfying kick of chilli.

All this plus olives and drinks saw the bill come in at £33, a value-for-money price that ensures the whole Pavarotti's experience gives every diner something to sing about.

Reservations: 01983 863528