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Welcome to Luigi's Al Fresco at The Griffin
Located in the picturesque setting of Danbury, Essex, Luigi's Al Fresco at The Griffin offers an enchanting Italian dining experience. With a charming outdoor terrace draped in fairy lights and a Mediterranean garden ambiance, it is perfect for families and romantic outings alike. Guests rave about the wood-fired pizzas, with flavors that transport you straight to Italy—especially the Pistachio and creamy truffle mushroom specialties. The cannoli and affogato have garnered rave reviews for their authenticity and indulgence. The attentive and passionate staff further elevate your dining experience, making every visit feel like a delightful escape. Don't miss this gem when in the area!
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About
Luigi's Al Fresco at The Griffin
Welcome to Luigi's Al Fresco at The Griffin, where the charm of Italy meets the serene landscape of Danbury, Essex. Located at 64 Main Rd, Danbury, Chelmsford CM3 4DH, this enchanting restaurant perfectly encapsulates the essence of authentic Italian cuisine, all while offering an inviting atmosphere that beckons both families and couples alike.
As you step onto the garden terrace, you're greeted by rustic wooden tables illuminated with fairy lights, creating a cozy yet elegant vibe that feels both festive and relaxed. Whether you're enjoying a family lunch in the sun or a romantic evening under the stars, the ambiance is truly unforgettable.
One of the highlights of dining at Luigi's is their impressive wood-fired pizzas. Reviewers have raved about the thin and crispy crust, topped with vibrant ingredients that burst with flavor. The Margherita is a favorite among kids, while adults may lean toward the unique Pistachio pizza or the creamy truffle mushroom special—each bite transports you straight to Italy.
And let’s not forget the desserts. The cannoli has been described as the best outside of Sicily, featuring a crunchy shell and smooth ricotta filling that strikes the perfect balance of sweetness. For coffee lovers, the affogato is a must-try, blending rich espresso with creamy vanilla ice cream—a divine treat you won't want to miss.
The attentive and passionate staff further elevate your dining experience at Luigi's. With a commitment to customer satisfaction, every interaction feels warm and welcoming, making you feel at home from the moment you arrive. The focus on quality extends to every part of the meal, from the carefully curated menu to the charming outdoor setting that feels like a Mediterranean getaway.
In summary, Luigi's Al Fresco at The Griffin is not just a restaurant; it's a culinary journey that ignites your senses. With delicious food, an enchanting atmosphere, and top-notch service, it's a hidden gem that deserves a visit. So whether you're in the mood for pasta, pizza, or simply a refreshing cocktail, make sure to stop by and experience a taste of Italy right in your backyard.
People talk
Our Guestbook
“ Luigi’s Al Fresco at The Griffin – Danbury A beautiful slice of Italy in the heart of Essex! We visited Luigi’s Al Fresco with our 3 kids and had an amazing family lunch in the sunshine. The wood-fired pizzas were absolutely perfect – thin, crispy, full of flavour. Kids loved the Margherita, while we enjoyed the Pistacio pizza and the creamy truffle mushroom special. Every bite felt like vacation in Italy. And the desserts? Incredible! The cannoli was the best we’ve had outside of Sicily – crunchy shell, smooth ricotta filling, just sweet enough. I also had my favourite – affogato (coffee with a scoop of ice cream) – rich, bold espresso poured over creamy vanilla. Pure heaven in a glass! The outdoor setting is charming – fairy lights, rustic tables, Mediterranean garden feel. Relaxed and welcoming for families, yet romantic and stylish too. Staff were lovely – warm, attentive, and clearly passionate about the food. Luigi’s is a real gem. If you’re in or near Danbury, make time to enjoy this authentic Italian experience. We’ll absolutely be back! #LuigisAlFresco #DanburyEats #FamilyFriendly #BestCannoli #AffogatoLove #ItalianVibes #PizzaAndSun ”
“ I recently had the pleasure of dining at The Griffin, a charming Italian restaurant that truly exceeded my expectations. From the moment we stepped into the establishment, we were captivated by the delightful ambiance and warm, inviting atmosphere. Nestled in a beautiful garden terrace, The Griffin proved to be the perfect spot for a summer evening meal, and I can already envision returning in the winter to experience its unique charm once again. The culinary journey began with a plate of mouthwatering mussels in white wine, garlic, and herb sauce. The generous portion of plump, succulent mussels was expertly cooked, and the sauce was a divine blend of flavors, perfectly complemented by the accompanying bread. Each bite was a symphony of tastes, leaving us craving more. For my main course, I opted for the classic comfort of lasagna, and it was a decision I did not regret. Served piping hot and oozing with richness, the lasagna at The Griffin was a true work of culinary art. Layer upon layer of perfectly cooked pasta, savory meat sauce, and luscious cheese created a harmonious balance that melted in my mouth. It was a dish that evoked feelings of warmth and satisfaction. My partner indulged in a fresh and delectable pizza, which was a highlight in itself. The crust was thin and crispy, providing the perfect base for the vibrant toppings that adorned it. Every bite was bursting with flavors, from the tangy tomato sauce to the perfectly melted cheese. It was evident that the pizza had been crafted with care and attention to detail. One aspect that truly stood out during our dining experience was the attentiveness and responsiveness of the restaurant's boss. Any minor issues we encountered were promptly addressed and resolved, showcasing a commitment to customer satisfaction that is commendable. To enhance the entire experience, the choice of ambient music added a delightful touch. It further elevated the already pleasant atmosphere, creating a relaxing and enjoyable backdrop to our meal. It's clear that The Griffin understands the importance of creating a complete sensory experience for its patrons. In conclusion, The Griffin is a hidden gem that promises an extraordinary culinary adventure. The enchanting garden terrace, the exceptional dishes such as the mouthwatering mussels, the comforting lasagna, and the delightful pizza, along with the impeccable service, all contribute to an unforgettable dining experience. Whether you visit in the summer or winter, I highly recommend The Griffin for anyone seeking an authentic taste of Italy in a charming setting. Grazie mille to the boss for his dedication to creating such a remarkable establishment. ”
“ Delicious Italian food. Had the lasagne, some sides and a gluten free pizza. My dad had the gluten free pizza and was very impressed with taste and texture. The tiramisu was absolutely fabulous! The best around compared to other local Italian restaurants. ”
“ My friend and I visited Luigi’s for the first time this evening and it was that good I thought I have to leave a review! All the staff were so lovely, the food was exceptional and the atmosphere felt like we were really in Italy. 2 for 15 cocktails between 5-7- brilliant! And the hazelnut martini was the best cocktail I’ve ever had! Outside spot in the sun with Italian background music was perfection. ”
“ I frequent this establishment very often and can't fault them. The food is amazing and the staff are always so welcoming and friendly. I can not fault it. So nice to visit and relax with friends. Keep up the great work guys and girls your doing amazing ”
“ I've now eaten here for breakfast, lunch, and dinner - all three times with a table of four - and no one has been disappointed. The food all has real flavor and is prepared with care. I love the pizza, the minestrone, and the avocado toast. Great coffee and service is attentive and not too slow. ”
“ This was a passing moment on the way back from pricing a job and popped in for some food......the food was totally amazing and way beyond my expectations!! I had an Enzo’s Burger and Truffle and Parmesan chips....this was by far the best burger and chips I’ve ever had, the service was amazing, definitely worth a visit and we will be coming back again soon!!! AMAZING!!!! ”
“ Hands down the best burger I’ve had, absolutely delicious. Can’t remember the last time I had anything even close to it. I would certainly go again should the opportunity arise and have a chance to explore other options on the menu. ”