Piccolino, Nottingham – 53 Verified Student Reviews 🍻
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Piccolino -
Piccolino -
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Based on 53 user ratings
7 Weekday Cross, Nottingham NG1 2GB, United Kingdom
💬 What Students Say
Located in the heart of Nottingham, Piccolino stands out as a stylish Italian restaurant and bar that offers a unique blend of casual dining and nightlife. This venue is particularly well-regarded by students from the University of Nottingham, who appreciate its contemporary ambiance and relaxed vibe. With a focus on authentic Italian cuisine, Piccolino provides a welcoming environment that is ideal for both casual hangouts and special occasions. The restaurant's fabulous cocktail bar is a major draw, making it a popular choice for those looking to enjoy a drink or two with friends.
The atmosphere at Piccolino is often described as laid-back and chill, making it a great spot for students who want to unwind after a long day of classes. Many reviews highlight the friendly and inviting crowd, which contributes to the overall enjoyable experience. Students frequently mention that the energy can vary depending on the night and the crowd, but generally, it maintains a good buzz that keeps the night fun. While it may not be the liveliest venue in town, it certainly gets the job done for those looking for a more relaxed night out.
When it comes to music, Piccolino is highly rated for its solid playlists that keep guests moving. The music tends to be decent enough to maintain a good atmosphere, and many students have noted that it complements the laid-back vibe of the venue. This makes it a suitable place for those who want to enjoy a drink while having a conversation without being overwhelmed by loud beats. The mix of music and crowd creates a welcoming environment that feels just right for a student night.
Drinks at Piccolino are often highlighted as a strong point, with many students mentioning that they are reasonably priced. While there are cheaper options available in the area, many feel that Piccolino offers good value for the experience it provides. The friendly staff add to the positive experience, ensuring that service is smooth and efficient throughout the night. Students appreciate the comfortable seating and thoughtful lighting, which create a pleasant atmosphere for longer stays.
However, it's worth noting that queues can get a bit long during weekends, which some students have pointed out as a minor inconvenience. While the venue does its best to manage the flow of guests, it's advisable to arrive early if you want to avoid waiting. Despite this, many reviews suggest that the overall experience makes the wait worthwhile. The cleanliness of the venue, especially the toilets, is frequently praised, which is always a plus for students enjoying a night out.
Piccolino tends to attract a mixed crowd, which can be a positive aspect for those looking to meet new people. However, some students have mentioned that the vibe can feel a bit off on certain nights, depending on the crowd present. This variability can impact the overall experience, so it's something to keep in mind when planning a visit. Still, many students return to Piccolino for its consistent atmosphere and enjoyable nights, often leaving with fond memories of their time spent there.
In terms of who this venue suits best, Piccolino is ideal for students who enjoy a more relaxed and chill night out. It's perfect for those who want to have a good time without the pressure of a high-energy club scene. The venue is also well-suited for small gatherings or casual dates, where the focus can be on conversation and enjoying good food and drinks. Overall, Piccolino offers a balanced mix of dining and nightlife that appeals to a broad range of students.
In summary, Piccolino is a highly regarded venue for students looking for a chill night out in Nottingham. Its combination of delicious Italian food, a cozy atmosphere, and good music makes it a popular choice among the student community. With its affordable drinks and friendly service, it's easy to see why many students keep coming back for more. Just be prepared for potential queues on busy nights, and you'll likely have a great time soaking in the relaxed vibe of this charming venue.
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The atmosphere at Piccolino is often described as laid-back and chill, making it a great spot for students who want to unwind after a long day of classes. Many reviews highlight the friendly and inviting crowd, which contributes to the overall enjoyable experience. Students frequently mention that the energy can vary depending on the night and the crowd, but generally, it maintains a good buzz that keeps the night fun. While it may not be the liveliest venue in town, it certainly gets the job done for those looking for a more relaxed night out.
When it comes to music, Piccolino is highly rated for its solid playlists that keep guests moving. The music tends to be decent enough to maintain a good atmosphere, and many students have noted that it complements the laid-back vibe of the venue. This makes it a suitable place for those who want to enjoy a drink while having a conversation without being overwhelmed by loud beats. The mix of music and crowd creates a welcoming environment that feels just right for a student night.
Drinks at Piccolino are often highlighted as a strong point, with many students mentioning that they are reasonably priced. While there are cheaper options available in the area, many feel that Piccolino offers good value for the experience it provides. The friendly staff add to the positive experience, ensuring that service is smooth and efficient throughout the night. Students appreciate the comfortable seating and thoughtful lighting, which create a pleasant atmosphere for longer stays.
However, it's worth noting that queues can get a bit long during weekends, which some students have pointed out as a minor inconvenience. While the venue does its best to manage the flow of guests, it's advisable to arrive early if you want to avoid waiting. Despite this, many reviews suggest that the overall experience makes the wait worthwhile. The cleanliness of the venue, especially the toilets, is frequently praised, which is always a plus for students enjoying a night out.
Piccolino tends to attract a mixed crowd, which can be a positive aspect for those looking to meet new people. However, some students have mentioned that the vibe can feel a bit off on certain nights, depending on the crowd present. This variability can impact the overall experience, so it's something to keep in mind when planning a visit. Still, many students return to Piccolino for its consistent atmosphere and enjoyable nights, often leaving with fond memories of their time spent there.
In terms of who this venue suits best, Piccolino is ideal for students who enjoy a more relaxed and chill night out. It's perfect for those who want to have a good time without the pressure of a high-energy club scene. The venue is also well-suited for small gatherings or casual dates, where the focus can be on conversation and enjoying good food and drinks. Overall, Piccolino offers a balanced mix of dining and nightlife that appeals to a broad range of students.
In summary, Piccolino is a highly regarded venue for students looking for a chill night out in Nottingham. Its combination of delicious Italian food, a cozy atmosphere, and good music makes it a popular choice among the student community. With its affordable drinks and friendly service, it's easy to see why many students keep coming back for more. Just be prepared for potential queues on busy nights, and you'll likely have a great time soaking in the relaxed vibe of this charming venue.
✅ What Students Love
- Stylish and contemporary ambiance perfect for casual hangouts.
- Highly rated for its affordable drinks and good value for money.
- Chill atmosphere that makes it easy to relax and enjoy time with friends.
- Friendly staff and clean facilities enhance the overall experience.
- Solid music selection that keeps the vibe enjoyable without being overwhelming.
- Comfortable seating and thoughtful lighting create a pleasant environment.
⚠️ Things to Note
- Queues can be long on weekends, which may require arriving early.
- The atmosphere can vary depending on the crowd, potentially affecting the experience.
- Not the most lively spot, which may not suit those looking for a high-energy night.
- Some students feel that it can feel off on certain nights based on the crowd.
- Limited late-night opening hours may restrict options for those seeking a longer night out.
🎯 Best For
Students looking for a relaxed night out with good food and drinks.
💡 Things to Know
- Expect a chill vibe, making it ideal for conversations and casual gatherings.
- Arrive early on weekends to avoid long queues.
- Music is generally upbeat but not overpowering, perfect for socializing.
- Dress code is casual, so feel free to come as you are.
- Check out the cocktail menu for some great drink options.
❓ Common Questions
What is Piccolino like?
Piccolino offers a stylish and relaxed atmosphere, perfect for casual dining and chilling with friends.
How long is the queue?
Queues can be a bit long on weekends, so arriving early is recommended.
Is it good value?
Yes, it's highly rated for affordability and good value for the experience.
What music does Piccolino play?
The music is generally upbeat and enjoyable, complementing the relaxed vibe.
What’s the crowd like?
The crowd is usually friendly and a good mix, though it can vary depending on the night.
Reviews
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Staff here have a knack for keeping things running smoothly even when it gets busy. they seem to genuinely care about making sure everyone has what they need, from drinks to a bit of banter as you wait. it’s refreshing to see that level of attention, especially since places can feel rushed and impersonal sometimes.
By user712075 (UoN) on Jul 15th 2026
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Atmosphere here makes it clear people invest in the experience instead of just profit.
By user313229 (NTU) on Jul 14th 2026
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When you’re looking for a fun night, it’s a lively place with decent music to keep you dancing. drinks are reasonably priced, so you can stay longer without worrying too much about spending.
By user348104 (UoN) on Jul 5th 2026
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Walking into Piccolino, I was surprised by how vibrant and lively it felt compared to what I expected from a bar. in Malaysia, nightlife usually has a different pace, but here, the energy flows with the music, drawing everyone in. it's refreshing to see such a diverse crowd enjoying themselves, making the place feel welcoming to students like me.
By user133050 (NTU) on Jul 3rd 2026
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Walking in, it felt much more upscale than what I expected from a student haunt, with a classy crowd and a clean environment. definitely worth checking out if you want something a bit more refined than the usual spots.
By user315926 (UoN) on Jun 25th 2026
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Walking in, the smooth lighting instantly changed my mood, making it feel more inviting. While the crowd was lively, what stood out was how the staff remembered my name on a second visit, which really made it feel personal and welcoming.
By user973273 (NTU) on Jun 22nd 2026
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Arriving at this place, the staff really set the tone for the night. They were attentive and seemed to genuinely care about making sure everyone was having a good time, which made a difference. With their welcoming approach, it felt less like another night out and more like an experience worth remembering.
By user848993 (UoN) on Jun 16th 2026
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Crowded nights at Piccolino can make it tough to find a quiet spot to chill and catch up with mates, but the music is usually on point
By user880889 (NTU) on Jun 13th 2026
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Going out here felt a bit pricey, especially on a student budget. drinks were decent but didn't always match the cost, which made me think twice about returning when there are cheaper options nearby.
By user186667 (UoN) on Jun 8th 2026
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Walking in, I was struck by how well-maintained everything was, especially given the late-night crowd it attracts. The cleanliness stood out, which isn’t something you often notice in nightlife spots. Staff members were on the ball, ensuring everything ran smoothly, making it a reliable choice for a night out.
By user438947 (NTU) on Jun 4th 2026
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Prices at piccolino feel really reasonable for the quality and atmosphere you get.
By user160285 (UoN) on May 26th 2026
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Piccolino has a nice vibe where you can tell the staff actually care about the experience. It feels different from other spots, like they’re not just there to serve drinks but to create a welcoming environment, which makes a night out feel more special.
By user988532 (NTU) on May 22nd 2026
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Really suits students looking to unwind after studio hours. it has a lively atmosphere with a mixed crowd, making it easy to meet fellow creatives while enjoying good tunes. perfect for escaping design stress
By user114291 (UoN) on May 16th 2026
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Crowd control could be better at peak times, as pushing through all those people can be a bit of a hassle.
By user912513 (NTU) on May 14th 2026
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More laid-back than most spots, this place suits those of us who prefer a chill atmosphere over loud crowds. if you’re like me and need a place where you can relax a bit while still enjoying a night out, then this fits the bill.
By user333024 (UoN) on May 11th 2026
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Walking in, it felt a bit more polished than what I expected, especially after hearing mixed reviews from friends. The cleanliness really stood out; everything felt fresh and well-maintained, which made a good impression. While the atmosphere had a lively energy, it was nice to see that they didn't sacrifice cleanliness for a good time.
By user342196 (NTU) on May 1st 2026
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Staff at piccolino are always laid back and approachable, which makes grabbing a drink after class feel a lot more welcoming and relaxed.
By user901276 (UoN) on Apr 28th 2026
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Didn't expect Piccolino to have such a packed vibe, it felt a bit like a club sometimes. the hustle and bustle wasn't what I signed up for but if you're up for a buzzing evening with loud laughter all around, this might just be your scene.
By user270767 (NTU) on Apr 20th 2026
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Walking in, the relaxed vibe instantly put me at ease and the staff were genuinely attentive.
By user543301 (UoN) on Apr 20th 2026
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Was surprised by how lively Piccolino was on a weekday night, it completely shifted my usual midweek routine. bartenders were quick and attentive, and it was hard not to get caught up in the buzz of everyone having a good time together.
By user917024 (NTU) on Apr 15th 2026
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Food's tasty, the staff are always welcoming, and the atmosphere is just perfect for winding down.
By user573148 (UoN) on Apr 9th 2026
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Expected it to be bustling but it was more low-key, which actually ended up being alright. drinks were student-budget friendly, and although the music wasn't stellar, it was enough to keep things lively without being overbearing.
By user340776 (UoN) on Mar 30th 2026
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Had to wait quite a bit for a table, which was a bit annoying 😬. the food's great though, just plan ahead if you're in a rush.
By user397544 (NTU) on Mar 25th 2026
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Getting a table wasn't a hassle, and the atmosphere was just right for unwinding. the lighting, music, and company clicked perfectly, making it one of those evenings where you don't even think about the time passing by.
By user556385 (UoN) on Mar 23rd 2026
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Saturday nights at piccolino feel vibrant. you'll always find groups of uni students chatting over dinner and drinks, which gives the place an energetic buzz. even if you go alone, there's something welcoming about watching everyone unwind and enjoy themselves.
By user109239 (NTU) on Mar 19th 2026
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Piccolino is easily becoming my midweek hangout, especially when I need a little pick-me-up halfway through hectic coursework. strolling in, the welcoming chatter and aroma of Italian cooking just hit the spot. by the time I leave, I often feel like I’ve had a mini escape 😅
By user522052 (NTU) on Mar 16th 2026
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Piccolino kind of grows on you after a few visits. i've found the staff start to recognize you and remember your order, which makes it feel less like going out and more like a regular place to unwind. plus, the casual dining and nightlife blend just feels right when you're adjusting to uni life here.
By user271736 (UoN) on Mar 15th 2026
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Definitely would go back since it's the perfect spot to catch up with mates. always buzzing with energy and offers the kind of laid-back vibe that's perfect for unwinding.
By user251079 (NTU) on Mar 9th 2026
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Got to say, nights at piccolino when the place is buzzing are something else. the bartenders really keep the energy up and everyone just seems in a good mood. if you want a place where you and your mates can just let loose a bit, this is it.
By user985391 (NTU) on Mar 8th 2026
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Feels a bit like a fancy getaway without the pretentious vibe, which is rare for somewhere smack in the city centre. can kick back there in scruffy trainers after class and still feel right at home with the mix of people.
By user474276 (UoN) on Feb 28th 2026
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Noticed that the staff genuinely seemed to remember the regulars, which adds a nice touch to dining there. had a laugh when the bartender predicted my order before I even spoke. it's the little things that make you feel appreciated, especially when you're just a student looking for a familiar place to relax.
By user742636 (UoN) on Feb 10th 2026
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Felt like every student in nottingham was there the night we went, but it didn't stop the staff from being super chilled and efficient. i was honestly expecting a massive wait, but my stomach was pleased with how quickly things arrived. it's right in the heart of the city, making it an easy go-to when you're already out and about.
By user138544 (NTU) on Feb 4th 2026
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Found myself at Piccolino after a class performance, and it turned into an unexpected night of laughter and new friendships. the mix of laid-back vibes and good tunes made it the perfect backdrop for connecting with people outside of uni stress.
By user352347 (UoN) on Jan 30th 2026
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Heard so much hype about Piccolino and it actually lived up to it, which is rare. expected it to be a bit pretentious but it was surprisingly easygoing. there's a nice balance of elegance and warmth, which was a pleasant surprise coming from a place in city centre.
By user796313 (NTU) on Jan 24th 2026
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Ended up going to Piccolino so often that it felt like a second home thanks to its chill atmosphere and friendly crowd.
By user849997 (UoN) on Jan 20th 2026
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Definitely popping back to piccolino. the place nails this perfect balance between a lively vibe and proper chill, which is kinda rare, isn't it? it's just pure laid-back social without any of the pretentious stuff, and i reckon that sort of atmosphere is what makes me want to keep going back.
By user454762 (NTU) on Jan 15th 2026
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Expected piccolino to be a bit too formal, but it turned out to have a more relaxed atmosphere than i thought. the mix of good music and chill lighting makes it quite inviting. it's just the right vibe for a casual get-together with mates 😊
By user780605 (UoN) on Jan 13th 2026
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Grabbed a seat next to the bar and instantly noticed how inviting it felt. chatting with some locals really made the night feel special. it's not every day you find a spot that's both trendy and down to earth.
By user394421 (NTU) on Jan 7th 2026
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Warm, welcoming vibe makes Piccolino stand out from other places around the city. you can feel the mix of chill dining and lively atmosphere.
By user108594 (UoN) on Jan 6th 2026
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Sat in the corner booth with a couple of mates, chatting away with no rush to leave, it felt like time just slowed down. the soft lighting and chilled music made it perfect for unwinding without any pressure. i might've stayed there all evening if hunger hadn't got the better of me eventually.
By user903856 (UoN) on Dec 30th 2025
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Evenings at piccolino burst with energy, especially when the DJ's spinning tracks that seem to make time fly by. the crowd gets right into it, making you feel part of a celebration rather than just a meal out.
By user328040 (NTU) on Dec 30th 2025
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Walked in on a random weeknight and found it effortlessly buzzing, perfectly balancing a lively crowd with laid-back Italian charm. the dim lighting and upbeat tunes made for a proper backdrop to good conversations and laughter. felt like the perfect escape from coursework stress, and it might just be my favourite place to unwind 🌟
By user801808 (UoN) on Dec 20th 2025
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Always seems to have a buzz without feeling overcrowded, which is a rare find around here. somehow it draws in both lively groups and those just wanting a relaxed meal without either feeling out of place.
By user696006 (NTU) on Dec 20th 2025
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Ambiance at piccolino is way more relaxed than some of the other places i've been to in nottingham, which is a nice change. music keeps a lively but chill mood and you can actually hold a conversation without shouting.
By user286538 (UoN) on Dec 13th 2025
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Tried Piccolino with some classmates and while the pasta was alright, the service was a bit slow. we spent longer waiting for our food than eating it, which was a pain because we were keen to unwind. 😬 maybe it was just a busy evening but it left us feeling a bit more stressed than relaxed.
By user937166 (NTU) on Dec 12th 2025
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Picture sitting under warm lights that somehow make everyone look better, chatting with friends while a soft hum of conversation carries along. piccolino really nails those evenings when you just want to relax and unwind. the laid-back feel here is perfect for taking a breather from all the chaos of student life.
By user507833 (UoN) on Dec 3rd 2025
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Chilling at Piccolino with its energetic vibe and student-centric crowd felt like the right call. being steps away from the hustle of Nottingham meant we could kick back without a care.
By user567945 (NTU) on Dec 2nd 2025
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Pop in for dinner before heading out and you'll see why it’s a fave among students. easygoing crowd, friendly staff, and their playlist is pretty chill 🎶
By user443761 (UoN) on Nov 25th 2025
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Didn't expect Piccolino to have such a cool atmosphere with a mix of students and locals. it felt like i was stepping into a lively little spot right in italy. loved the sense of community there
By user743307 (NTU) on Nov 22nd 2025
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Met a group of friends here on a rainy saturday afternoon and what was supposed to be a quick drink turned into dancing and laughter. surprisingly fun twist for a place that seemed low-key.
By user244167 (UoN) on Nov 14th 2025
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Staff here nail the art of balancing attention and giving you space. noticed how they effortlessly remembered who preferred what when they returned to check on us
By user311157 (NTU) on Nov 9th 2025
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Felt a bit too cramped during peak hours, which threw off the otherwise relaxed atmosphere. wish they'd look into managing crowd flow better, as it could make visits more enjoyable.
By user530331 (UoN) on Nov 1st 2025
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By user245114 (UoN) on Sep 21st 2024
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