Offering a symphony of cicchetti, antipasti, pasta, pizza, and dolci, it’s hard to miss when you’re dining at the best Italian restaurants in London. But let’s be real—some spots are so outstanding, they might just make you question why you ever considered a pasta night in!
Italy’s reputation as the home of comfort food is well-earned, and you don’t need to hop on a flight to enjoy a taste of this deliciousness. From rustic to refined, Italian cuisine is like a culinary rollercoaster. Think of it as an all-you-can-eat buffet of flavor, where every region’s delicacy—from Tuscan ragu to Neapolitan pizza—promises a flavor fiesta.
In London, the Italian restaurant scene is as diverse as Italy’s landscapes. Whether you’re craving fresh antipasti, a steaming risotto, or a tiramisu that’ll make you weep tears of joy, the best Italian restaurants in London have got you covered. Pull up a chair, order an aperitivo, and get ready to experience the ultimate Italian feast. Bellissimo!
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Top 10 Best Italian Restaurants in London: Where to Find Your Pasta Paradise
Sale e Pepe, Knightsbridge: The Best Italian Restaurant for a Night to Remember
When it comes to the best Italian restaurants in London, Sale e Pepe in Knightsbridge knows how to make an entrance—or at least how to make everyone wonder, “How did you score a table here?” Since opening in 1974, this gem has been the epitome of Dolce Vita, with a touch of old-school Italian glam that even Priscilla Presley and Rod Stewart couldn’t resist.
Acquired by the Thesleff Group in 2022, which also owns the trendy Mexican-Japanese joint Los Mochis, Sale e Pepe underwent a fabulous facelift. The revamped design, led by Hamilford Design, channels Milanese townhouse vibes with midnight blue walls, opulent art, and bronze mirrors that make the space look twice as chic.
While the notion of ‘small plates’ might be debated in Italian dining, the menu at this standout among the best Italian restaurants in London makes it easy to dive into multiple hearty courses. From juicy prawns and herby tuna tartare to crispy bread paired with burrata, it’s a feast that could make even the most restrained diner go wild with their camera flash.
Cacio e pepe is served with the flair it deserves, perched on a pedestal that demands a round of Negronis in its honor. The veal Milanese, with its gluten-free crumb, is a revelation, while ravioli stuffed with spinach and ricotta swim in a rich tomato sauce. And of course, no visit to the best Italian restaurants in London would be complete without tiramisu. After a refreshing limoncello, diners leave stuffed and smug, having rediscovered a classic London favorite that’s now better than ever.
The Dover, Mayfair: A Sneaky Gem Among the Best Italian Restaurants in London
In the world of Mayfair, where flashy openings and paparazzi pandemonium are the norm, The Dover sneaks in like a well-dressed spy at a celebrity bash. While other venues are flaunting their red carpets and DJ sets, this New York-style Italian restaurant prefers to keep things on the down-low—perhaps a nod to Martin Kuczmarski’s cool-headed tenure as Soho House’s COO or just a smart move to dodge the social media frenzy.
Hidden behind a currant-red drape, The Dover reveals itself as a cozy Big Apple speakeasy, with candlelit tables and plush booths creating an intimate atmosphere. Designed by Milanese maestros Quincoces & Drago, the space boasts American Walnut paneling and Art Deco lamps, offering a warm embrace from the hustle of Mayfair.
Among the best Italian restaurants in London, The Dover makes a strong impression with its bar snacks: crispy zucchini and asparagus fritti, truffle-studded cheese sauce quattro formaggi, and a miniature hot dog that’s nothing short of Instagram-worthy. For the main course, the chicken cordon bleu in pizzaiola sauce is a revelation, complemented by a comforting bowl of spaghetti meatballs and creamy mashed potatoes.
No visit to the best Italian restaurants in London is complete without dessert, and The Dover doesn’t disappoint. The baked crème brûlée cheesecake with sour cherries is a sweet finale that proves there’s always room for more. With a final sip of Savinguan Blanc and a round of Martinis, diners leave with a satisfied grin, having discovered one of the most under-the-radar treasures among the best Italian restaurants in London.
Il Pampero at The Hari, Belgravia: Chic Italian Classics That’ll Make You Reconsider Belgravia
When pondering the best Italian restaurants in London, Belgravia might not be the first area to come to mind. Enter Il Pampero, and suddenly this posh postcode becomes a hotspot for elevated Italian cuisine. Nestled inside the stylish boutique hotel The Hari, this restaurant boasts a chic setting with geometric tiles, leather booths, and moody green and brown accents that scream sophistication.
Head chef Angelo Albera isn’t here to play it safe. At Il Pampero, diners are treated to authentic Italian dishes made from locally-sourced ingredients. Start the culinary adventure with seared scallops paired with apple purée, crispy potato, and tangy yogurt sauce—an opening act that’s anything but ordinary. Mains include hearty homemade pasta, from the classic pici cacio e pepe to ravioli and cavatelli, along with grilled meats, fish, and a vegetable medley. Don’t miss the honey-glazed duck breast with orange chutney or the roast aubergine stuffed with rocket and vegan ricotta.
For dessert, tiramisu is a must, but the passionfruit and hazelnut mousse might just cause a food coma. With a wine list that tours Italy’s finest regions, Il Pampero stands out as one of the best Italian restaurants in London, proving that Belgravia can indeed serve up some seriously sophisticated Italian fare.
Luca, Clerkenwell: The Michelin-Starred Italian Gem That’s Too Good to Miss
Luca in Clerkenwell might just be the best-kept secret among the best Italian restaurants in London. With its eye-catching emerald green facade and a Michelin star glittering from 2023, Luca is the spot where special occasions meet exceptional Italian cuisine. If it hasn’t made it onto your radar yet, consider this your official invite to a dining experience that’s busier than a London tube during rush hour.
Step inside, and Luca transforms from an ordinary street facade into an intimate haven of candle-lit warmth and earthy tones. Chic Italian furnishings and vintage lampshades set the scene, while the main dining area flaunts gold drink trollies and red-leather seating amid exposed brick and floor-to-ceiling windows. For those seeking privacy, Luca offers three exclusive dining rooms, cozy nooks, a sun-drenched terrace covered in twisting green vines, and a log fireplace perfect for winter nights.
The open kitchen churns out modern Italian plates with a cheeky British twist. Begin with parmesan fries that could make anyone a carb convert, then move to starters like roast Orkney scallops with chorizo paste and creamy burrata with peas and broad beans. The mezzi paccheri with pork sausage ragù, tomato, and mint deserves its own standing ovation.
Seasonal secondi features, like the Hereford beef fillet, ensure the main event is as memorable as the build-up. Don’t forget dessert—a warm lemon tart that’s practically a hug in dessert form. Afterward, cap off the night with a Negroni at the bar, proving that Luca isn’t just one of the best Italian restaurants in London; it’s an experience not to be missed.
Manteca, Shoreditch: The East London Hotspot That’s Redefining Italian Dining
When it comes to finding the best Italian restaurants in London, Manteca in Shoreditch is the place that proves you don’t need to be in Mayfair to enjoy top-notch Italian fare. After a whirlwind tour as a pop-up in Mayfair and a pit stop in Soho, Manteca has finally settled into its permanent home in East London—and it’s not just resting on its laurels.
This place exudes cool, with stripped-back interiors and a vibe that screams, “We know our pasta from our pizza.” Created by Chris Leach of Petersham Nurseries fame and David Carter of Smokestak, Manteca quickly snagged a Bib Gourmand just months after opening. The menu is a love letter to Italian classics with a modern twist—think spicy ‘nduja steamed mussels that pack a punch, rich brown crab cacio e pepe that’s nothing short of divine, and creamy house-made ricotta served with courgette and chilli.
Still riding high on its initial success, Manteca remains one of the best Italian restaurants in London, proving that East London isn’t just the coolest part of town; it’s also the place to find some of the best Italian dining in the city.
Bardo, St James: Where Italian Glamour Meets Live Music Magic
If you’re hunting for the best Italian restaurants in London and fancy a night where glamour meets gastronomy, Bardo in St James is your go-to. This isn’t your average dinner spot; it’s where Italian opulence collides with a sultry ambiance and live music that makes you wish every meal came with its own soundtrack.
Upon stepping into Bardo, prepare to be enveloped in an atmosphere so intimate and dimly lit, it practically begs for whispered conversations and dramatic glances. The restaurant’s vast space manages to feel both grand and cozy, thanks to the live musicians adding a touch of pizzazz to your evening. And, best of all, the acoustics are such that you can enjoy your date’s charming anecdotes without the intrusion of neighboring table chatter.
The menu is a veritable Italian feast without the stress of “sharing plates” debates. Start with antipasti that could make anyone swoon—think oozy truffle polenta, roasted scallop with a creamy bean puree, or burrata that melts hearts. The pasta dishes, including a refined cacio e pepe ravioli, lead up to the pièce de résistance: the Cotoletta alla Milanese, a breaded veal cutlet served with roasted tomatoes that’s so good it might just steal the show.
Whether it’s a special occasion or a “why not” Tuesday night, Bardo is a stellar pick among the best Italian restaurants in London, ensuring that every bite is paired with a touch of glamour and a dash of live music magic.
Noci, Islington: Where Pasta Dreams Come True
If you’re on the hunt for the best Italian restaurants in London that serve up comforting pasta with generous portions, Noci in Islington is about to become your new obsession. This fresh addition to the London dining scene, brought to life by head chef Louis Korovilas (formerly of Bancone and Michelin-starred Locanda Locatelli), is a pasta paradise on Islington Green.
Noci makes sure starters aren’t just a warm-up act. Dive into creamy burrata wrapped in zingy beetroot slices, or get spicy with nduja arancini. The leek, walnut, taleggio, and gorgonzola torta fritta is an oozy, nutty delight that’s worth its weight in gold. For those who believe in the magic of cacio e pepe, Noci’s rendition is so buttery it should come with a warning. But the real showstopper here is the silk handkerchiefs with wild mushrooms and a rich egg yolk center. It’s pasta that’ll have you dreaming about the next bite before you’ve even finished the first.
In the quest for the best Italian restaurants in London, Noci is an unmissable contender. Come for the silky handkerchiefs, stay for the unforgettable pasta, and leave with a new favorite spot.
Campania & Jones: East London’s Hidden Gem for Rustic Italian Comfort
Tucked away on a charming cobblestone corner near Columbia Road, Campania & Jones has swiftly claimed its spot as a local treasure among the best Italian restaurants in London. This cozy haven offers a rustic charm that feels like a warm hug after a day of city life. With exposed brick walls, wicker lampshades, and a wood-burning fire, the ambiance is as comforting as the food. The handmade ceramics from Nom add a touch of local artistry to every dish.
Campania & Jones celebrates Southern Italian cooking with a menu that changes daily based on what’s fresh and fabulous. Still, a few stars are always on the menu, like the hearty pappardelle ragu and the unforgettable gnudi with sage and butter. For starters, Hackney wild bread drenched in olive oil is a must, and for dessert, the tiramisu—creamy and boasting a boozy kick—will have you reconsidering your life choices.
If you’re on the hunt for the best Italian restaurants in London, Campania & Jones is your go-to for a meal that’s as satisfying as a warm Italian embrace. Reservations fill up fast, but tables spill out onto the street in summer and are heated in winter—because great pasta deserves to be enjoyed in all seasons.
Fiume: Battersea’s Italian Oasis with River Views
Nestled along Battersea Power Station’s waterfront, Fiume is a prime contender for the title of the best Italian restaurants in London, especially if outdoor dining is your thing. This contemporary gem from D&D London (yep, the bread is freshly baked daily!) combines industrial chic with a touch of Mediterranean flair. The interior, swathed in warm brown and brass tones, seamlessly extends onto a lush terrace overlooking the Thames. The fairy lights and the soothing river views create an ambiance perfect for a romantic evening—or for pretending you’re on a glamorous Italian holiday.
Chef Francesco Mazzei, who also graces Mayfair’s Sartoria and Radici in Islington, has curated a menu that’s as refreshing as a splash in the Thames. Expect to find classics reimagined with a modern twist, like the Scottish crab and Amalfi lemon tagliolini, which might just make you rethink your pasta priorities. The deep-fried courgette is an Italian staple that’s anything but ordinary, and the aubergine parmigiana is a cheesy delight. For a touch of decadence, the tiramisu steals the show, with its velvety texture and just the right amount of Marsala, crowned with cocoa and bold coffee notes.
If you’re searching for the best Italian restaurants in London, Fiume offers an unbeatable combination of riverside charm, mouthwatering dishes, and a menu that makes you want to linger. With pizzas starting at £10 and Aperol Spritzes at £9, it’s a steal for a dining experience that’s as memorable as the view.
Officina 00: Shoreditch’s Pasta Paradise with a Side of Industrial Chic
When it comes to the best Italian restaurants in London, Officina 00 on Old Street stands out with its blend of industrial cool and pasta perfection. Named after the flour used to craft its culinary creations, this Shoreditch hotspot is as trendy as it is delicious. With green-tiled interiors and a jungle of trailing succulents, it’s clear that Officina 00 isn’t just another pasta joint.
The action really heats up near the pasta station, where aproned chefs create fresh pasta shapes that would make an architect jealous. The menu is a playground of Italian flavors with a modern twist: think pumpkin gnocchi fried with sage and butter, and corzetti pasta resembling chic little frisbees. Shell-shaped cavatelli is tossed with padron peppers and crispy coppa, proving that creativity in pasta is alive and kicking.
But for the true highlight of the best Italian restaurants in London, don’t miss the fried raviolo filled with cacio e pepe. It’s the crispy, cheesy starter that has locals flocking back time and time again.
FAQ’s
1. Do these Italian restaurants cater to dietary restrictions?
Most of the best Italian restaurants in London, including those mentioned, offer options for various dietary preferences. For example, Campania & Jones provides hearty Southern Italian dishes, and many restaurants offer gluten-free pasta options or vegan alternatives. It’s always a good idea to check the menu or call ahead to confirm.
2. Are reservations required at these Italian restaurants?
For popular spots like Luca and Campania & Jones, reservations are highly recommended. These restaurants often book up quickly due to their popularity, especially on weekends. For a more casual experience, some places like Officina 00 may offer walk-in seating, but it’s best to secure a table in advance to avoid disappointment.
3. What is the typical price range at these Italian restaurants?
Prices vary across the best Italian restaurants in London. At Fiume, you can enjoy reasonably priced dishes like pizzas starting at £10, while Luca’s menu features dishes that may cost more, especially for special occasions. Campania & Jones offers affordable, hearty meals, and Officina 00 provides a range of pasta dishes that are well-priced considering the quality.
4. Are there any Italian restaurants with outdoor seating?
Yes, Fiume is particularly notable for its beautiful outdoor terrace overlooking the Thames, making it an excellent choice for dining al fresco. Campania & Jones also offers outdoor seating, which is heated in winter, providing a cozy option for those who enjoy dining outside.
