Italian Restaurants in Aberdeen

“Had a lovely early Anniversary meal today. The food was beautiful and well presented, the choice of menu was great, the staff were very polite and professional. Overall, such a lovely, relaxed environment to enjoy your meal. I would thoroughly recommend giving Al Fresco a try, you won't be disappointed. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐”

“After eating here a few times over the past couple of years, I have yet to be disappointed by any of their dishes.

The steaks both me and my girlfriend had on our latest visit were absolute perfection, and the service was tremendous.

This is not a venue I hear thrown into the mix when discussing steaks in Aberdeen but I will be recommending it to anyone that asks.”

“Great food and atmosphere. Staff are lovely and the seafood is excellent. We are repeat customers and we will definitely be back again in future.”

“Had a lovely early Anniversary meal today. The food was beautiful and well presented, the choice of menu was great, the staff were very polite and professional. Overall, such a lovely, relaxed environment to enjoy your meal. I would thoroughly recommend giving Al Fresco a try, you won't be disappointed. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐”

“What a lovely restaurant, fantastic selection on the menu and really nice staff who were an absolute credit to the owner , great value and very good portions . Will definitely return ??”

“Front of house Manager could teach many Aberdeen restaurants a lesson in friendly, efficient customer service . Nothing fake or scripted , good to see ! Food good , value for money. Recommend .”

“I visited this little gem when I was working in Aberdeen. Without doubt the best Italian restaurant I’ve ever been in. My wife, girls and mother came to visit me for a weekend and we had a fantastic Saturday night eating perfect food and drinking lovely red wine. Staff were amazing too. Definitely 10/10”

“We had a fab time during the weekend in the The Exchange Bar & Kitchen in Aberdeen City centre and we have tried their famous Lamprais. Sri Lankan Lamprais originated with the Dutch Burgher population in the 17th century (an ethnic group of mixed Dutch, Portuguese Burghers and Sri Lankan descent came up with the dish). The Exchange is a pub & restaurant in the Exchange Street, Aberdeen City. As soon as we enter the pub, we had a warm welcome from the friendly staff! The venue suits for Birthday parties, Office parties /meetings and family get togethers. Inside a very nice and vibrant atmosphere and ideal for any kind of professional / casual or formal event. The friendly management team is there to cater you as per your requirements. **The Exchange’s Lamprais: A Luxurious Journey of Sri Lankan Gastronomy** Nestled within the refined interiors of *The Exchange*, a culinary sanctuary known for weaving tradition with modern luxury, the Lamprais emerges as a crown jewel—a masterfully crafted ode to Sri Lanka’s rich culinary heritage in Scotland. From the moment this iconic dish arrives at the table, it commands attention. Lovingly wrapped in a perfectly charred banana leaf, the unmistakable aroma of exotic spices, slow-cooked meats, and caramelized onions wafts through the air, instantly transporting you to the bustling streets and lush landscapes of the island nation of Ceylon. The presentation is striking in its simplicity yet teeming with a sense of artistry, as the gentle unwrapping of the leaf reveals a treasure trove of flavors inside. **The Rice:** At the heart of the Lamprais lies a delicately steamed mound of rice, each grain separate yet perfectly soft. Infused with aromatic pandan, cardamom, and a subtle hint of cloves, the rice itself is a textural masterpiece—light and fragrant, a perfect canvas for the rich symphony of accompaniments that surround it. **The Meat:** *The Exchange* elevates the traditional meat selection to an exquisite level. The slow-braised lamb / mutton, marinated in a complex blend of Ceylon spices, melts effortlessly on the tongue. Each bite delivers layers of flavor—smoky, slightly sweet, with a gentle heat that lingers. The addition of tender chicken and the subtle gaminess of beef enrich the experience, providing a robust medley of textures and tastes, each meat imbued with its own spice-laden marinade. **The Curry Flavors:** The curries here are nothing short of revelatory. The rich, deep-fried Tuna Fish cutlet and Prawn / Shrimp belacan or blachan are made from the freshest catch of the sea. Chicken and meat curry, simmered slowly in a concoction of tamarind, coconut milk, and roasted spices until the meat is tender and the sauce clings delicately to every morsel. The devilled Brinjol Moju (Aubergine), served alongside, offer a sharp, tangy contrast, their filling vibrant with chili and mustard seed, perfectly offsetting the richness of the dish. **The Sides:** Accompanying the Lamprais are a selection of sides that add depth and texture to the meal. A traditional ash plantain / Cashew curry provides an acidic burst, cutting through the spice with its sharp, tangy notes. Meanwhile, the caramelized onions (Seeni Sambol), slow-cooked until golden and almost jam-like, bring a deep sweetness to balance the plate. **Service & Atmosphere:** The Exchange provides an experience as opulent as the dish itself. The attentive waitstaff exude grace and knowledge, guiding you through the cultural significance of the Lamprais with reverence. The chic, yet understated atmosphere—accented with lush greenery and dark wood tones—creates the perfect ambiance to savor such a deeply rooted, intricate dish. The Exchange’s rendition of Lamprais is not merely a meal—it’s an immersion into the vibrant history of the Island nation, an invitation to savor the artistry of Sri Lankan cuisine at its highest level. For those seeking a gourmet exploration that balances tradition with luxury, this dish is an absolute must-try. Here, Lamprais is more than a dish; it’s a story told through spices, ”

“Amazing service and food as always. Renzo served us tonight and was amazing, as was the bar staff of which I’m not sure the name. Service was so attentive and friendly and the food was beyond amazing. Favourite restaurant in Aberdeen. Thanks guys!”

“Took advantage of their propotional two for one meals. To be completely honest I didn't think my pasta choice was going to be nice but I was wrong. It was delicious and filling. Service was very quick indeed and the girl who looked after us was bright, talkative and cared. I would certainly recomend them. One thing however, the seating is very worn. I can imagine several thousand backsides have sat on the same spot as I mine did.”