Nicolino's: The Italian Institution That's Dominated Emsworth for 30 Years

SOME restaurants survive. Others thrive. And then there's Nicolino's — the unassuming Italian trattoria on Emsworth's North Street that has been dominating local dining for over three decades.

From Barletta to Emsworth

The story begins in South-East Italy, where Nicolino was born in the coastal town of Barletta. He's been working in kitchens since the age of 15, a journey that took him from his hometown to Milan, then Lake Maggiore, before crossing to English shores.

After honing his craft in Chichester and Chilgrove, then running his own business in Portsmouth, Nicolino finally settled in Emsworth in 1993. He's been here ever since — and the town is richer for it.

The Numbers Speak Volumes

With 1,078 Google reviews averaging 4.7 stars, Nicolino's isn't just popular — it's an institution. That kind of sustained excellence across more than a thousand customers tells you everything about consistency.

"Nicolinos is what Italian restaurants should be," writes one TripAdvisor reviewer, capturing what makes this place special.

Another simply declared: "Best Italian food in Hampshire, that I can be sure of."

Greeted Like Family

Step inside and the first thing you notice is the welcome. This isn't corporate hospitality — it's genuine warmth.

"As you walk inside you're greeted like one of the family," notes one food blogger who stumbled upon the restaurant on a rainy afternoon. "Here you get the sass, service and a sweet smile as the owner tells you to eat more."

That blend of attentive service and Italian exuberance runs through everything. Staff remember regulars. Newcomers feel instantly welcome. The pace is efficient without feeling rushed.

Food That Defeats You (In The Best Way)

The menu at Nicolino's is expansive — traditional Italian favourites alongside house specialities that reward the adventurous. The Pollo Modo Mio earns particular praise: chicken breast filled with taleggio cheese and chestnut mushrooms, wrapped in smoked ham with marsala and crème fraîche sauce.

"Brilliant service, fantastic food," writes one Restaurant Guru reviewer. "Really recommend the Pollo Modo Mio."

But it's the portion sizes that catch first-timers off guard. One visitor ordered the Lupara — a deceptively simple-looking bowl packed with bacon, mushrooms, red wine, chillies, cream, tomatoes, and olives.

"The portion sizes are as large as the food is delicious," she admitted. "It defeated me."

The sea bass with prawns earns consistent mentions. The spaghetti carbonara is executed properly — none of the cream-laden impersonations you find elsewhere. And the meat lasagna? Classic Italian comfort, done right.

Small, Buzzing, Authentic

Nicolino's is deliberately intimate. The rustic décor creates an atmosphere that feels genuinely Italian rather than themed. On busy evenings, the place buzzes with conversation and laughter — the kind of energy that can't be manufactured.

This intimacy has a practical consequence: you'll want to book ahead, especially for dinner. Tables at Emsworth's most loved Italian don't stay empty for long.

Wine That Matches The Food

The wine list has earned its own following. Yelp reviewers particularly praise the selection:

"A great wine selection, especially the Barolo," notes one regular. House wines are reliable; the Italian bottles reward those who want to explore.

Why 30 Years Matters

Anyone can have a good opening year. Maintaining excellence across three decades — through recessions, pandemics, and changing tastes — requires something deeper. It requires genuine passion for the craft and authentic care for customers.

Nicolino's has both. The same philosophy that brought a 15-year-old into kitchens in Barletta still drives the restaurant today: good ingredients, proper technique, and hospitality that makes people feel valued.

What Sets Nicolino's Apart

- 4.7-star rating from 1,078 Google reviews - Since 1993 — 30+ years serving Emsworth - Authentic Italian from a native chef - Generous portions that reward hearty appetites - Rustic atmosphere with genuine character - Takeaway available when you can't get a table - Wheelchair accessible with booking available

Visit Nicolino's

📍 34 North Street, Emsworth PO10 7DG 🌐 nicolinoss.co.uk ⭐ 4.7 from 1,078 Google reviews

Three decades of satisfied customers. Over a thousand glowing reviews. One Italian chef who fell in love with Emsworth and never left.

Nicolino's isn't just a restaurant — it's proof that authenticity, consistency, and genuine hospitality never go out of style. Book a table and taste the tradition for yourself.