Whether it is a warming bowl of pasta bake, a spaghetti carbonara on a meal out or a comforting macaroni cheese, we love our pasta.

We now even have a whole day dedicated to the Italian dish, which is being celebrated across the country today.

There are 600 different varieties of pasta and you can try come of them at these top-rated Italian restaurants, as recommended by Trip Advisor.

1. Villagio Ristorante, Basildon Festival Leisure Park

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This Bas Vegas restaurant tops the list, has become a firm favourite with pasta lovers.

One reviewer commented: "If you want authentic Italian food then this is the place to go. I have been there a few times now and never had any complaints! The staff are lovely and friendly and quick service. Would definitely recommend."

2. La Bicicletta, Station Road, West Horndon

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Reviewers praise this place for its pasta and antipasta - so it it probably a good choice to celebrate National Pasta Day.

It is also celebrated for its seasonal specials, authentic food and welcoming staff.

3. La Toscana, Billericay

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Tucked off the high street is this pasta-lover's dream. There is a great selection of pasta dishes - and they can even serve gluten free pasta.

There is also a range of other dishes, including monkfish and venison.

4. Gambero D'oro, High Street, Benfleet

Echo:

This Italian comes with high recommendations and is a popular choice for those living near by.

One reviewer said: "We booked a last minute reservation for lunch as our guests had an early flight the next morning; the food was excellent and staff efficient and friendly.They said it was the best restaurant meal they had ever had and so was a huge success all round, most enjoyable."

5. La Romantica, Rayleigh

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Reviewers rate this place for its friendly staff, good atmosphere and excellent food.

The menu is also varied and prices are said to be reasonable.

6. Beauvoir Arms, Downham Road, Billericay

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This Italian also serves a range of roast dinners as well as authentic pasta dishes.

One reviewer commented: "Large group of friends booked here and everything was fabulous. Lovely atmosphere, helpful, friendly staff. The food was delicious and service was excellent. We would not hesitate to visit again. Very satisfied."

7. Vita Bella, East Hanningfield

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This restaurant opened in 2012 and has quickly become very popular.

One reviewer: "First time coming to Vita Bella and we loved it. Was highly recommended to us and we had a wonderful meal with great food and the service was first class. All the staff were highly attentive and lovely to speak to. We will be going back soon!"

8. Cucina, Leigh

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Reviewers rate Cucina for its excellent food, with a varied, tasty menu and not overly priced.

It specialises in Italian and Sicilian cusine.

9. La Pizzeria, Westcliff

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This restaurant has been called a "little gem", "simply exquisite" and a "proper Italian" by reviewers.

One reviewer said: "We booked here based on reviews and were not disappointed. Lovely staff who made us feel one of the family, the food was beautiful, with such generous portions and so tasty, the house red was superb, we looked at other peoples dinner as it came out and everything looked fantastic, it's only a small place but has great atmosphere. We loved it and will be regulars."