Noida has always been treated like Delhi's stepsister. Sure, Delhiites wouldn't mind taking a ride on the DND (the expressway connecting Delhi to Noida) or seeing a movie at Wave (a multiplex with seats where you can actually manage to stretch your legs). However, when it comes to food, I don't blame them. Noida had nothing to show...until recently. 

Pasto-Italian Kitchen, opened barely a month ago by a young entrepreneur, is serious competition to Big Chill Caf�, the king of Italian food and my favourite pasta place in Delhi.

Tucked away in a corner of the popular Sector 18 market, a stone's throw from McDonald's, you will see a canopy that looks very inviting. Climb up the aesthetically designed steps and enter a tiny restaurant that's cozy, yet elegant. There are about 10 tables. The lighting is soft, with candles on each table adding to the ambience. Attention to detail is obvious, so don't be surprised if the young owner comes to your table to ask about the food.

The menu may seem limited, but don't be disappointed.

If you love pasta as much as I do, try the Pasta with Bacon in Saffron Sauce. It is a lightly flavoured sauce that goes well with the crunchy bacon. You may also try the Pasta with Prawns in a Tangy Tomato Sauce -- the prawns actually melt in your mouth. Vegetarians can choose between kinds of pasta (fusilli, penne, spaghetti) and sauces (cheese sauce, arrabiata, carbonara). Expect to pay between Rs 200 and 300 per dish.

For your main course, try the Chicken Breast on Bell Pepper Sauce. You will wipe the plate clean with the bread. All main course dishes come with boiled vegetables, bread and a tangy dip on the side, with prices ranging from Rs 220 to 350.

There is also an array of pizzas and they have got it just right. I'm not sure if it's the flavoured cheese or the thin crust crunchy base that makes me go back for more. Try the Pepperoni Pizza for proof. Vegetarians, try the four-inch Cheese Pizza. You will thank me for this. A pizza typically costs around Rs 250.

The restaurant is yet to get a liquor licence, which is a pity as wine would go exceptionally well with all this food.

. Plus points: Excellent food and personalised attention.
. Minus points: The music may not suit all tastes (I suggest taking a CD along!), and the prices are a little high. Dinner for two could cost Rs 800 for non-vegetarians and Rs 600 for vegetarians.
. Address: Sector 18, Noida.

-- Harnoor, 24, is a brand management specialist from MICA and currently with HCL Technologies [Get Quote] as the Global Events Manager in the Corporate Marketing division. The views she has expressed here are personal.

Do you have a favourite restaurant / cuisine? Be it Manali or Kanyakumari, Kashmir or Goa [Images], Jaipur or Nagpur -- self-confessed foodies, recommend a restaurant. Or, have you had any BAD food experiences? Spill the beans.

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