OpenThe Cuikoo Bar & Bistro
114-116 John St, Penicuik EH26 8NG, United Kingdom
Welcome to Giovanni Italian Bistro
Giovanni Italian Bistro serves authentic Italian cuisine in a cozy setting, situated on High Street in Penicuik. The family-owned establishment prides itself on providing a welcoming atmosphere and high-quality dishes that highlight fresh ingredients. Guests enjoy a delightful range of meals for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, complemented by an impressive coffee and dessert menu. Although the bistro has no bar, patrons can bring their own wine to enhance their dining experience. With a price range of £10–20, it’s an affordable option for families and groups looking to enjoy a delicious meal without breaking the bank.
Welcome to Giovanni Italian Bistro, a delightful eatery nestled in Penicuik, where the rich flavors of Italy come alive. With a menu featuring breakfast, lunch, and dinner options, our vibrant bistro offers something for everyone, including healthy choices and small plates perfect for a quick bite. Enjoy our exceptional coffee, exquisite desserts, and a diverse tea selection in a casual, cozy atmosphere. We are wheelchair accessible and family-friendly, with high chairs and a kids' menu available. Whether dining solo or with a group, reservations are recommended to ensure you savor each moment at Giovanni's. Join us for a memorable culinary experience!Services, Amenities and More
Service options
Takeaway
Dine-in
Highlights
Great coffee
Great dessert
Great tea selection
Popular for
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Solo dining
Accessibility
Wheelchair-accessible entrance
Wheelchair-accessible seating
Wheelchair-accessible toilet
Offerings
Coffee
Healthy options
Quick bite
Small plates
Dining options
Breakfast
Brunch
Lunch
Dinner
Catering
Dessert
Seating
Table service
Photo Gallery
View Menu Photos
Reviews Overview
Most Liked
The standout feature of Giovanni is undoubtedly the food; patrons rave about the rich flavors and quality. The spaghetti carbonara, often served within minutes, receives much praise for its taste and value. Many highlight the vibrant coffee and tea selection, perfect for a quick pick-me-up during a busy day. Desserts are another crowd-pleaser, with visitors eager to indulge in sweet treats after their meals.
The staff’s friendly service adds to the overall pleasant experience. Customers appreciate the personal touch that the family-owned bistro provides, making each visit feel special. The ability to bring your own wine provides flexibility, adding a unique twist to the dining experience that patrons love.
Most Disliked
While patrons generally enjoy their experiences at Giovanni, some note the absence of a full bar; the BYOB policy can be inconvenient for those expecting to order wine on-site. Additionally, the bistro's popularity results in high traffic, especially during peak hours on weekends; booking ahead is often necessary to avoid long waits, especially for lunch.
A few diners express concerns about limited menu options during certain times, though the bistro’s commitment to quality helps to offset this. Some have also mentioned occasional noise levels during busy lunch periods, which can detract from an otherwise enjoyable dining atmosphere.
User Reviews
PP
Phil P.
What a wonderful place and we chanced upon it as we were staying nearby. Giovanni is the chef and this is a superb family owned and run restaurant. You can bring your own wine as there is no bar but the food! oh the food is amazing and we could have stayed longer. Didn't really expect to find something like this lovely place hidden in plain sight. If you're visiting Penicuick go once and eat here it's worth the time, but do call and book first. Thank you to the staff and to the chef, we loved it and will come back.
CT
Chris T.
Excellent value and prompt and friendly service. Had a quick lunch of Spaghetti Carbonara and it appeared in less than 5 mins and was very tasty. Almost all main courses less than £10 each so a great place to take the family for an affordable meal out. Would definitely recommend.
JK
Janet K.
Had a lovely meal today great service and good prices
DF
Dave F.
I recently had a big birthday lunch at Giovanni`s which was nothing short of amazing, the range and quality of food options were outstanding and Chris and the family all provided brilliant service, nothing was too much trouble. I highly recommend Giovanni`s for any special occasion where you want that personal touch. Thanks to everyone Dave
GT
Gillian T.
Went for lunch with a friend who lives in Penicuik. Amazing value compared with anywhere in Edinburgh. Good freshly prepared food and friendly, helpful service.
LM
Lorraine M.
Food was exceptional, my mum goes here regularly with her walking group and suggested we went, absolutely fantastic, service was fantastic and food excellent. Would definitely recommend.
NH
Norma H.
FABULOUS family friendly restaurant. Delicious food. A superb Italian Gem in Penicuik. 🥂
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Location & Hours
Opening Hours
MondayOpen
TuesdayOpen
WednesdayOpen
ThursdayOpen
FridayOpen
SaturdayOpen
SundayOpen
Location
Frequently Asked Questions
Giovanni Italian Bistro offers a variety of meals suitable for breakfast, brunch, lunch, and dinner, showcasing traditional Italian dishes alongside Mediterranean flavors.
Yes, the bistro has a dedicated kids' menu and provides high chairs, making it a great spot for families.
Yes, reservations are recommended for brunch, lunch, and dinner to secure a spot at this popular eatery.
The bistro accepts credit cards, debit cards, and NFC mobile payments for convenience.
Yes, the bistro features a wheelchair-accessible entrance, seating, and toilet, ensuring all guests can enjoy their visit.
The menu features great coffee, tempting desserts, and a lovely selection of teas, making it perfect for casual dining at any time of day.
Why visit Giovanni Italian Bistro
Giovanni Italian Bistro is a must-visit for anyone in or around Penicuik. The blend of authentic Italian cuisine, cozy atmosphere, and personal service creates a warm and inviting experience for all diners. Reservations are advisable during peak hours—especially on Saturdays—to avoid disappointment. For families, the affordability of the menu makes it a perfect spot for gathering without straining the budget.
Tip: If you're planning a quick visit, aim for weekdays, particularly Wednesday or Friday afternoons when the crowds thin out. Do not miss out on the dessert menu, which is the cherry on top of an already exquisite Italian meal. Whether for a casual brunch, a quick lunch, or a cozy dinner, Giovanni guarantees a satisfying experience that captures the essence of Italian dining.
