IT was my mother's 70th birthday so I took her and her friend Betty to Llandudno. I know what you're thinking: Taste Test, take them for a meal... wrong!
 I took them to North Wales Theatre to meet and watch their favourite singer, Charlie Lansborough, leaving my wife and I free for just long enough to enjoy dinner at La Dolce Vita in Rhos on Sea. As you approach La Dolce Vita, the aroma of Italy drifting along the street guides you like radar to your destination. The restaurant is on the upper of two levels, downstairs being a bar with comfy chairs where you can chill out after your meal. I would suggest you arrive early and sit by the window, enjoy a glass of wine and browse through the extensive menu. We browsed to the sound of Italian singer Paolo Conte singing Via Con Me - or chips, chips, chips, as most people know it - the perfect relaxing music to start the evening. Over the years I have photographed hundreds of restaurants that used to be turned into the famous line drawings that were Daily Post Taste Tests illustrations. Some years ago, seasoned tester Iorwerth Roberts happened on La Dolce Vita. He had gammon, egg and chips, which is hardly Italian, so I thought it was time to rectify the situation and try some of the dishes more in keeping with the restaurant. Having browsed and browsed the extensive menu I chose Costatine Di Maiale - spare ribs Italian style - served in a tomato and herb sauce. My wife, Keri, chose a cold vegetarian dish called Insalata pomodoro e mozzarella, a mozzarella and tomato salad with lettuce, rocket olives and black pepper. Both were a success, with the ribs arriving piping hot, the honey glaze giving a sweet and sour effect to balance with the tomato and herbs. Paolo was still singing in the background when the chink of glasses and buzz of conversation was broken with a gasp as a rousing "happy birthday to you" rang out. A cake topped with sparklers was accepted by a very surprised diner with envious looks from another table. | 
