Pici is a lively modern Italian restaurant in Hockley, Nottingham, serving fresh pasta, pizzettes and small plates built around seasonal ingredients.
The menu encourages sharing. On our visit, heritage tomato panzanella arrived bright and well balanced, while crispy lamb nuggets packed plenty of flavour. Courgette fritti with ricotta, mint and hot honey combined crunch, freshness and gentle heat. Tagliolini with lobster head puttanesca was the standout: rich, savoury and skilfully judged. A glass of Trebbiano matched the food well.
Menus change regularly, but diners can expect dishes such as pici cacio e pepe, pasta with slow-cooked ragù, wood-fired meats, vegetable plates and classic Italian desserts. The drinks list includes spritzes, Italian wines and bottles from small European producers.
Service from Jack and the team was warm, informed and relaxed, helping create an upbeat atmosphere without making the meal feel rushed. Children are welcome until 9pm under its alcohol licence. For confident Italian cooking, fresh pasta and a good glass of wine in central Nottingham, Pici is well worth seeking out.
Important note: Pici’s website says, “We don’t currently accommodate for coeliacs as we work in a very floury environment and can’t avoid cross-contamination.”
