Mamma Mia

Founded back in 1985 by Nella and Gianni Massimo, who are now joined by their son Leno, Mamma Mia has been serving up authentic Italian food in Bradford for over 30 years. An integral part of Bradford’s restaurant and business culture, the restaurant recently sponsored a stand at Bradford City A.F.C.’s stadium. Located on the fashionable North Parade, near the Forster Square railway station, Mamma Mia makes a great introduction to this up-and-coming part of Bradford, with hip bars nearby.

You’ll find a regular menu of Italian classics, plus changing seasonal specials, much of it put together from local produce.

The rich regular menu includes essential starters such as bruschetta and antipasti spreads. There’s a Costine Casa, pork ribs cooked in the chef’s special sauce, and of course Calamari Fritti, fried battered squid rings. Mains include, of course, spaghetti carbonara and lasagne, but also some less well-known dishes such as Pappardelle al Ragu de Maiale, butterfly pasta with black pepper sausage, and the Linguine al Nero di Seppia, black linguine pasta cooked with mussels, salmon, king prawns and clams. There’s a full range of authentic Neapolitan pizzas.

The Pesce mains come highly recommended, especially the Salmone Croccante, a pan-fried salmon in garlic and cream, on a bed of spinach with a pine-nut topping. The carne list includes a Stroganoff di Manzo, tender pieces of beef in a demiglace sauce.

Drinks include a full wine list, with plenty of prosecco, and red and white wines to every taste, as well as vino speciale al bicchieri – special wines served by the glass. There are even some French champagnes for those who dare to mix it up a bit. You can also sample the offerings of the local Saltaire Brewery, who offer changing seasonal beers on tap.

There’s a great children’s menu too, containing miniaturised versions of classic Italian dishes.