That’s exactly what I did when I booked myself a Friday afternoon table at Ponte Nuovo, and now I can understand why it’s earned its reputation as Croydon’s most popular dining spot.
Croydon may not always rank favourably on my personal list of places to go, but I’d be lying if I said there weren’t some great places hiding among the high street chains and empty units.
Ponte Nuovo is one of those gems: buzzing, welcoming, and brimming with character from the moment you step in.
There have been times when I step into an independent restaurant in the afternoon and find out it’s just me there, but at Ponte Nuovo, the scene is different.
By the time I arrived, the place was already alive with chatter, cutlery clinking against plates, and staff weaving between tables.
Something is reassuring about seeing a restaurant thriving outside peak hours, as it’s a sign that it isn’t just surviving on evening crowds but a consistent favourite at all times.
I’ll admit, dining alone can sometimes feel awkward, but as I was led to my table, I noticed a few other solo diners already tucking into lunch, and I instantly felt at ease.
It’s one of those unspoken signs that a restaurant has truly nailed its offering: when people are comfortable enough to come by themselves, not for convenience, but because the food and atmosphere are worth it.
On my left sat a large, multi-generational family, clearly regulars judging by their rapport with the staff.
The host floated between tables with a warm and genuine energy that made me feel like one of the family.
Naturally, I started with a drink.
A Piña Colada priced at £11.95 might sound steep, but cocktails in Croydon often fall flat; either watered down or overly sweet.
This one was spot on creamy without being heavy, with just the right kick of rum.
(Image: Ezekiel Bertrand)
It’s the sort of cocktail that transports you somewhere sunnier, and I’d happily order it again.
For the main event, I went for a classic: Spaghetti Ragu (£15.45).
(Image: Ezekiel Bertrand)
Spaghetti with homemade ragu sauce made from minced meat, tomato, and herbs might sound simple and dull, but simplicity is often the hardest to get right.
The spaghetti was generously coated in sauce, and all that was missing was a piece of garlic bread to scoop everything up.
I’ll admit that I asked for extra cheese not once, but twice.
The staff didn’t flinch, and they brought it over with a smile, which only made me like the place more.
Of course, no Italian meal feels complete without dessert, and I wasn’t going to leave without trying one.
I chose the Panna Cotta (£7.75) that was smooth, delicate, and just sweet enough.
(Image: Ezekiel Bertrand)
The bill came to £38.67, and honestly, it felt worth every penny.
For the quality of food, the attention to detail, and the sense of belonging created inside those walls, it’s a price I’d happily pay again.
What makes Ponte Nuovo stand out isn’t just the food, though it certainly delivers on that front.
It’s the atmosphere and the restaurant manages to be elegant without feeling pretentious,
Croydon might be full of empty units and changing faces on the high street, but Ponte Nuovo feels a safe bet in a town where consistency is sometimes hard to come by.
It’s easy to see why it’s the borough’s top-rated restaurant, and if you haven’t been yet, it deserves a spot on your list.
Whether you’re grabbing a quick lunch, celebrating with family, or just indulging in a solo meal with too much cheese (like me), Ponte Nuovo proves why it’s the name on everyone’s lips.
Dining and Cooking