A Culinary Tour of Italy: The Top 12 Italian Restaurants in London
In the heart of London, the world’s diverse culinary delights converge, and among its standouts is Italian cuisine—a delectable fusion of history, culture, and impeccable flavors. From intimate, family-run trattorias to the height of Michelin-starred luxury, London offers an Italian gastronomic experience that rivals the streets of Rome or the alleys of Florence. Embark with us on a journey through the top 12 Italian eateries you mustn’t miss.
Locanda Locatelli
Vibe: A haven of luxury; this Michelin-starred restaurant exudes sophistication with its plush seating and dim, romantic lighting.
Specialty: Contemporary dishes redefine tradition. Their truffle pasta (£32) boasts delicate flavors, captivating even the most discerning palates.
Bocca di Lupo
Vibe: Radiating energy, the large open kitchen allows diners a glimpse into the art of Italian cooking.
Specialty: Sourcing ingredients from various Italian regions, the raw seafood antipasti (£15) is a briny taste of the Mediterranean.
Murano
Vibe: A serene escape; Murano offers a modern, upscale environment peppered with artwork that tells stories of Italian heritage.
Specialty: Their osso buco (£29) is slow-cooked to perfection, revealing the rich tapestry of flavors.
Trullo
Vibe: Boasting a cozy ambiance, the brick walls and wooden furniture transport diners to a cottage in Tuscany.
Specialty: The Pappardelle with beef shin ragu (£16) is a heartwarming dish, reminiscent of an Italian grandmother’s kitchen.
Lina Stores
Vibe: A nostalgic trip to the 1950s; green and white tiles accentuate its vintage feel.
Specialty: A pasta haven, the handmade ravioli (£14) is crafted with passion, telling tales of old Italy.
Gloria
Vibe: Exuding vibrancy, its eclectic decor blends the kitsch with the classic, making every corner Instagram-worthy.
Specialty: Layers of ecstasy await in their 10-Level Lasagna (£18), each bite revealing a different story.
Palatino
Vibe: Modern, airy, and illuminated by natural light; Palatino juxtaposes ancient Roman recipes with chic London architecture.
Specialty: Transporting diners to Rome’s streets, their fried artichokes (£12) are a crisp revelation.
Sartoria
Vibe: Located in the fashionable Savile Row, its ambiance mirrors the tailored elegance of its surroundings.
Specialty: Risottos (£24) here are a symphony, balancing textures and tastes effortlessly.
Cecconi’s
Vibe: Timeless. With polished wood and brass accents, Cecconi’s is a nod to Italian aristocracy.
Specialty: Their wood oven pizzas (£15-£19) are a harmonious blend of crispness and melt-in-your-mouth toppings.
Franco Manca
- Vibe: Trendy yet laid-back; its exposed brick walls lend an urban charm.
- Specialty: Celebrated for its sourdough pizza (£7-£12), each slice resonates with authenticity.
Da Michele
- Vibe: Unpretentious, with its checkered floors and simple decor; it’s all about the food here.
- Specialty: Their Margherita (£8.90) is pure Neapolitan magic, often crowned as London’s best pizza.
Il Bordello
- Vibe: Pictures of old Italy, hanging plants, and warm lighting create a familial embrace.
- Specialty: The seafood linguine (£17) promises an oceanic adventure with every bite, abundant in fresh catch.
What’s London’s oldest Italian restaurant?
London’s oldest Italian restaurant is The Gay Hussar. However, it’s essential to note that The Gay Hussar was not purely Italian; it primarily served Hungarian cuisine but was a gathering spot for many Italian emigrants and had Italian influences in its dishes and wines.
If we’re looking strictly at Italian-focused restaurants, Luigi’s on Cheyne Walk, which opened in 1973, is among the oldest. Over the decades, London has seen many Italian restaurants come and go, but Luigi’s has remained a constant, delivering traditional Italian dishes to its loyal patrons.
