Signor Valentino, Cardiff Bay.

Enjoying a commanding elevated position at the heart of Mermaid Quay, Signor Valentino seems to have all the credentials for a perfect romantic meal - although I had been warned it was on the pricey side.

Candle-lit tables created a relaxed ambience and we admired the stunning view of the Bay at night over starters of mushrooms in garlic and white wine (£3.95) and cream of mushroom soup (£3.50).

The main courses did indeed seem rather expensive, at least for our limited means, ranging from £10.95 to £16.95, so we opted for a pasta dish each - and any fears that our healthy appetites would not be satisfied were soon dispelled when two huge bowls appeared.

I chose the tagliatelle spezzatino (strips of pasta with fillet steak, mushrooms, garlic, cherry tomatoes and a touch of chilli) at £9.95, while my partner plumped for penne sorrentina (pasta tubes with chicken, garlic and tomato), also £9.95. Both remained deliciously hot throughout and went down well with a side order of bruschetta con mozzarella (£2.75) and a glass of house red (£3.50).

We couldn't resist desserts and I went for the classic tiramisu (£3.95) - a generous portion but surprisingly light. My partner enjoyed vanilla ice cream (£3.50) - the 'real thing' made with vanilla pods, not the nasty yellow synthetic stuff masquerading as vanilla.

My only gripe would be that the restaurant was a little on the cold side, although it was a particularly chilly night when we visited.

Prompt, friendly service made up for any shortcomings and the bill of £55.20, including two caff lattes and sparkling waters, seemed reasonable enough for such a pleasant evening.