Pastadelli

Standing two-deep at Pastadelli's long,glass counter is more like being at a CBD foodhall than leafy Wahroonga. The friendly staff are working like the clappers when we're there for lunch,taking orders,heating food and bagging pre-made sandwiches that have all but sold out. Behind the glass are familiar-looking bowls of pasta and sauce,pies,frittatas,salads and pastries.

On the opposite wall is a banquette with tables and pendant lights above. There are also a few free-standing tables,one of which is ours,the last available for some time.

It is colourful and cosy,bustling but not noisy,a good atmosphere for lunch or coffee. After ordering we're directed to the cutlery and napkins on a bookshelf on the far wall and complimentary water and plastic cups in the fridge.

I have the chicken,leek and potato pie with an Asian brown rice salad ($12.45) and my companion the vegetable frittata with the same salad ($13). Both are solid helpings,the salad has a sweet,nutty zing,though the pie is dry and bland. The frittata arrives lukewarm. The Campos coffee ($3.30),however,is good - strong with a rich,creamy top.