'Il Carretto', the well-known South London Italian restaurant, is having a reincarnation in Coulsdon and my daughter Jenny and I were invited to a sneak preview of the menu recently.

'Il Carretto' is taking over the premises occupied by 'Las Delicias' Mexican Restaurant at 121 Brighton Road and our visit took place a few days before the official changeover at the end of August.

When 'Il Carretto' was in Streatham it was one of the most popular restaurants in London and many remember its lively atmosphere and popular 'Elvis' nights. It is yet to be decided if the Elvis nights will be resurrected too but the new owner, Andrea, has lots of exciting plans for the new restaurant.

He said: "It is going to be just like 'Il Carretto' in Streatham - the same food, ambience, everything. Lots of people will remember what a fantastic place it was and were sorry to see it go. I am excited that we are re-opening it in Coulsdon."

The menu is varied and reasonably priced, with a good selection of pizza and pasta dishes as well as meat, fish and salads. Jenny and I had homemade Minestrone Soup for starters and the menu will feature many other favourites including deep fried squid, avocado pear and prawns and garlic mushrooms. Our main course was the very traditional 'Pollo Funghi', a large breast of chicken served in a mushroom and cream sauce. The chicken was beautiful, really tender in a wonderful creamy sauce with lots of mushrooms. It came served with crispy potato wedges and fresh vegetables. The meal was a tantalising glimpse of the high quality of the food to be served at 'Il Carretto'.

Why not be one of their first new customers? See their advert below for more details.