Chain Comfort Eating

Restaurant chains are comforting, no matter which venue to go to you are comforted by familiarity, the menu, the furniture and the background music. There’s no need to worry if the bread and olives are extra or if there is table service. The illusion is that this comfort is provided by only chains. Local family run restaurants can also provide this comforting consistency, like Giacomo Italian Restaurant, 428 Finchley Road. Over the years I have returned to this father and son run restaurant and each time have had an enjoyable meal.
The portions are generous and of delicious quality. The wine is reasonably price with glass, half bottle and bottle options. The service is always personable.  True, the space can be a little limiting at times which is why I prefer to book and ask for a table along the side. After a couple of visits your family run restaurant can be your fail safe restaurant. True, there is no Giacomo of Finchley Road when I visit Edinburgh or Bath but do I really want the same experience wherever I am? Does that not  minimise our opportunities for new experiences?