A POPULAR Italian restaurant many claim is the best in Oxford has been recognised for equally high food hygiene standards.

La Cucina, in St Clement's Street, was awarded a top score of five stars after Oxford City Council's health team visited the business on February 18.

The restaurant prides itself on providing 'a real Italian experience', its website explaining: "We serve well priced robust portions cooked to order, using only finest produce from our open kitchen.

"Enjoy our authentic menu with daily specials or just pop in and sample a cup of our wonderful Italian coffee."

Owner Yola Dage, who opened La Cucina 14 years ago, said they were 'very grateful' for the top rating as it was nice to acknowledge the hard work of staff adding: "It's a tough business at the moment, especially for restaurants that aren't chains.

"People think we are always busy but there are days that are slow."

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She said the restaurant had always had an open kitchen so it would be 'difficult to hide' any food hygiene issues.

Ms Dage, who runs La Cucina with husband Alberto Brunelli, said: "I think people have come to expect high standards from us and we've never had any complaints."

She also praised the relationship the restaurant had developed with the council's hygiene team, explaining: "It's nice not having to be afraid of health officers visiting.

"They are approachable and available, working with us, which is really positive."

Last year Oxford Mail readers voted the restaurant as their favourite in the city for Italian cuisine.

According to many what gained it the top spot was 'consistency, authenticity, great food and reasonable prices'.

Reader Evie Bentley said: "So many delicious and happy meals. This family restaurant has great ingredients, fabulous cooking, and a lovely ambience.

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"We’ve had countless meals here, a deux, with family, with friends, all very enjoyable.

"And the Italian wines complement the food, it’s our favourite Italian restaurant in the UK."

Feedback is equally glowing on website TripAdvisor, where it is currently ranked as the best Italian place to eat in the city.

It is also 26 out of 432 restaurants in Oxford based on more than 600 reviews.

One regular customer wrote: "I have been dining here for years.

"It constantly ranks for me ten out of ten for food, service and ambiance."

Food from the restaurant is also now available to order via Deliveroo.

Visit lacucinaoxford.co.uk.