We resisted the temptation to call in at our usual Italian restaurant and decided to give the new Italian, Il Forno Ristorante a try. Il Forno is situated off the main A6, on New Zealand Lane in the village of Duffield. As we entered we instantly agreed that we liked the feel of the place. 
We were shown to a table for two and presented with complimentary bread sticks, mixed olives and olive oil while we perused the menu. Most of the tables were occupied with couples, families and a large family party obviously celebrating a birthday, the atmosphere in the place was really lively and pleasant. The menu choice was wide and varied, neither my husband nor I could decide on what to eat, decisions, decisions… Eventually for my starter I ordered the prawn cocktail; peeled prawns served with a marie rose sauce on a bed of mixed leaves and my husband chose smoked salmon and marinated prawns also served on a bed of mixed leaves. 
Each dish was well presented and served on large white plates, highlighting the mixed colours of the fish, leaves and sauces. Both fish dishes were full of flavour and very enjoyable. To accompany our meal we chose the house red wine which was fruity and very pleasant. Our main meal arrived, I had the tagliatelle porcini; taliatelle with porcini mushrooms, truffle oil and cream. It was very tasty, the sauce was not too rich and there were plenty of mushrooms, outstanding. My husband ordered filetto rossini; a prime 8oz fillet steak with red onions, mushrooms and Madeira wine sauce. I noticed he seemed really quiet so I asked him if everything was all right, he smiled at me and said “it’s been such a long time since I’ve had a steak that was cooked to such perfection”. The sauce was rich and packed full of flavour, all together a very enjoyable dish. Both our mains were served with fresh vegetables and salad. To finish we had tiramisu and New York cheese cake. Both desserts were well presented and the perfect end to a really lovely meal. Even in tough times a new business venture can flourish and this innovative restaurant newly opened in Duffield, Derbyshire hopes to prove that point by providing customers with good quality food, outstanding modern and classic Italian dishes, offering something for everyone. Their chefs prepare each dish using only authentic recipes and fresh ingredients bursting with flavour. Il Forno really is an amazing Italian restaurant both for food and service, our compliments to the staff; we could not fault this restaurant in the slightest.