Formerly Al Forno's, Tavistock Italia has undergone a multi-million pound refurbishment to look as good as it does, and boy was it worth it.

From my perfectly positioned table overlooking the beautiful North Sea, I perused the cleverly designed menu packed with incredible mouthwatering Italian dishes.

After much deliberation, I ordered myself the Funghi Ripieni - two huge field mushrooms filled with pate and covered in breadcrumbs with a red onion marmalade, and a bruschetta for the other half, followed by a crab and prawn risotto for me, and the most amazing calzone pizza I have ever laid eyes on for the boyfriend which had 'Tavistock' written in the bolognaise sauce in balsamic vinegar.

Portion sizes are huge - after finishing my delicious main course (with enough prawns to sink a battleship) it looked as though I had barely made a dent in it, but I still thought it was only fair to take a look at the dessert menu...

One sticky toffee pudding and a Tavistock tiramisu later and we were both fit to bursting after a beautiful meal.

Despite having no room left, we were assured the restaurant made the best cappucinos, and made a little space for a cappucino and a hot chocolate to round off a perfect evening.

It was a real joy to be able to order authentic Italian food, as you watch the waves crashing against each other - not for one moment would you remember you aren't in Italy but are in fact on East Parade in Whitley Bay.

Friendly staff, beautifully cooked food, and an amazing view, have made Tavistock Italia my new number one Italian - and somewhere I am already clamouring to return to.

Expect to pay around £40 for a three course meal for two.

Tavistock Italia is at 13-17 East Parade, Whitley Bay, and bookings can be made on (0191)253 684.