Some friends suggested we try this place out with them as they had heard it was quite a good restaurant. It looks like quite a nice restaurant from the outside and very clean, well set out and tidy on the inside, but didn't have very many tables. So if you wanted to go in a large group you would probably need to book the whole place. We went on a saturday night and couldn't believe that there were only three other tables taken. It might be because the food really is expensive, I had the fettuccine carbonara ($30), I cannot say that I have ever paid that much for pasta, it was quite nice but not for that price. Entree's range from about $9 for some garlic bread, which was ok. They did serve our meals very quickly, but it wasn't busy. They were friendly enough, but it wasn't a great atmosphere and their wines were way toooo expensive. Overall, not such a great night out and we all decided we wouldn't be returning. Maybe they were having bad night - which does happen, but really not worth paying that much. So, will not be returning.

Approximate cost: $45

Having dined at many of Adelaide's good restaurants I approach dining at a 'new one to me' with a little trepidation, suffice to say I have sometimes been very disappointed. Not last week when I visited Puccini's at Parkside however. The restaurant has a simple but elegant and modern feel about it and the buzz of a busy Saturday evening of diners was evident. The menu was, as you would expect for a suburban boutique restaurant, on the small side, but had a good selection spread and gushed quality and Italian 'foody' finesse. The wine list was very extensive and broad-ranging in both variety and price range, and also included some quality Champagnes. Our 3 course meal was eagerly anticipated and it never disappointed. Very good quality, service, and all in all a great night that we will repeat in the future. One of our success stories that we will espouse to our friends and others. Well done Puccini's and keep up the good work!

Approximate cost: $32