I recently had the pleasure of being invited to one of Newbury's greatest new additions to its independent restaurant scene; Gourmet Pasta Co. 

Owner Hugo Lesser, who previously had never worked in food before, found his love for these new types of pasta dishes whilst living in South America for a brief period of time.

Gourmet Pasta Co. presents a new take on all the classic Italian dishes we know and love, with a menu teeming with traditional things like carbonara and beef ragu with the customer's choice of pasta. 

As well as those, the team also does things like green sorrentinos, which are large, filled pasta parcels full of delicious filling. 

Upon visiting Gourmet Pasta Co. we were warmly welcomed and led to a bright table at the centre of the modern restaurant. The ambiance was exquisite with warm lighting and gentle music. 

After viewing the extensive menu, we both decided to share one of the specials that was offered that day: black ravioli with four cheeses in a buttery sauce with parmesan. 

We also took tagliatelli with a creamy chicken and mushroom sauce, ciabatta with homemade chimichurri, and a selection of seasonal greens. 

I can honestly say that this was one of the best selection of pasta dishes I have eaten in quite some time, and I lived in Italy for a year. 

The ravioli was deliciously rich and the four cheeses matched perfectly to the earthy taste and al dente texture of the pasta. 

I had initially been hesitant to try black pasta after previously trying an awful squid ink spaghetti dish in Venice a few years ago, but this was incredible. I would thoroughly recommend it if they offer the special again. 

Now onto the tagliatelle, which also happens to be my favourite type of pasta. It was cooked to perfection, with a buttery sauce, rich garnish, and succulent chicken breast. 

Our choice of sides was also magnificent, with my mother even asking for the recipe for the chimichurri after we had finished our meals. 

The dishes were also well portioned which is something I fervently look for in an independent. Upon leaving we even decided to buy a selection of their takeaway sauces to try our hand at cooking some of the dishes at home. 

If you are looking for an evening of great food, regionally sourced wine, and excellent service, you should definitely make your way to Gourmet Pasta Co.