MY old man was in town this week. Rather than subject him to some crazy concoction created from the rather meagre remnants of my fridge I thought I'd take him out for a treat.

I must admit, my motives might have been the slightest bit ulterior, since I was still suffering withdrawal symptoms after overdosing on olives and other delicious Italian delicacies in Lake Garda.

He suggested Italian (with a little encouragement) and we settled on ASK - an authentic stone baked pizza and pasta restaurant on the corner of Old Christchurch Road, overlooking Lansdowne roundabout.

I've been tempted by the delightful aromas emanating from within these walls on many an occasion but for one reason or another hadn't the time or appetite to take a seat.

Housed in a charming, Victorian building, constructed in the late 19th century the restaurant is deceptively large. The interior is stylish but simple. A contemporary blend of browns and creams, with dark wooden tables decorated with candles and giant orange daisies, plenty of well placed mirrors and pleasing artwork.

Those who fancy a bit of fresh air can also eat al fresco on the terrace. Furnished with wooden decking, wicker chairs and giant umbrellas this outdoor patio area is flanked by big Italian flowerpots and surrounded by perfectly trimmed mini trees.

Keen to enjoy the last of the summer sun we selected the latter despite the lack of shelter from the squealing of breaks and the bleeps of the pedestrian crossing. But we needn't have worried - once our food arrived these paled into insignificance.

After some marinated olives to sate our appetites I dug into an insalate whilst my father tackled a tomato and onion salad.

The generous portion sizes, beautifully presented, would have been sufficient for a main course.

My work of art was especially impressive consisting of perfectly ripe avocado, crisp cucumber, sweet tomatoes, fresh spinach and crunchy croutons sprinkled with herbs, parmesan and a delectable dressing.

To follow I ordered a tropicale pizza which arrived piping hot, tantalisingly thin and crispy and covered in colossal slices of ham and plenty of pineapple. My Dad sampled a dish from the pasta section, casareccia al pesto - fine roasted peppers, grilled aubergines and mushrooms in a pesto sauce.

Lansdowne roundabout might not be a patch on the stunning backdrop of the majestic mountains and spectacular water of Lake Garda but the food was every bit as authentic as its Italian counterparts.

And all for less than £30, including beers. Bellissimo!