The Best Italian Restaurants in London
If you love a great Italian meal or wine, London offers an array of amazing options. In this video, I’ll take you across the capital and, regardless of budget, share some of the city’s best Italian restaurants.
Il Pampero at The Hari, Belgravia
Established in 2016 and named after the owner’s favourite house, Il Pampero is nestled in one of London’s most luxurious neighbourhoods. This beautiful basement spot exudes Italian chic and vintage glamour, offering elevated Italian cuisine and wine within the Belgravia Hotel. Il Pampero perfectly marries Italian hospitality with the Belgravian lifestyle, making it an ideal location for breakfast, brunch, lunch, or dinner. The wine list boasts selections from renowned regions such as Tuscany, Umbria, and Trentino. Additionally, their cocktail bar is renowned for classic Italian cocktails, particularly at their Negroni Bar.
Trullo, Highbury
Opened in June 2010, Trullo is celebrated for its seasonal, simple Italian-inspired dishes that change daily. One of its standout offerings is the signature pappardelle with slow-cooked beef-shin ragu, a dish that takes eight hours to prepare and has become a firm favourite among diners. The restaurant’s all-Italian wine list is expertly paired with the charcoal grill cooking, enhancing the simplicity and delight of traditional Italian cuisine.
Ciao Bella, Bloomsbury
For those seeking an authentic Italian vibe, Ciao Bella in Bloomsbury is a must-visit. Established in 1983 and taken over by Felice Pollano and his best friend Lorenzo in 1999, the restaurant aims to bring the best of Italian culture and style to London. A resident pianist, Norman Trger, adds to the lively atmosphere, encouraging guests to participate in the music. Known for its large bowls of pasta and vibrant neighbourhood charm, Ciao Bella is a beloved part of London’s culinary history.
Luca, Farringdon
Opened in November 2016 and awarded a Michelin star in 2023, Luca is renowned for having one of the best terraces in London. The brick-lined restaurant features an elevated Italian menu served in a stylish yet informal setting with a fireside terrace. The modern interiors provide a luxurious dining experience that keeps patrons coming back for more.
Bardo St James’s, St James’s
Located near the National Gallery, Bardo St James’s is an elegant and opulent Italian restaurant inspired by the classic glamour of Italy in the 1950s and 60s. Opened in September 2021, it offers classic fine-dining Italian dishes created by Graziano Bonacina, the former head chef at Sette in the Bulgari Hotel. With a resident six-piece band playing Italian classics and monthly candlelight classical music evenings, Bardo St James’s provides a sophisticated atmosphere perfect for a theatre night out, complemented by a pre-theatre dinner menu.
Artusi, Peckham
Artusi, a local favourite in Peckham, offers low-key, cool dining with excellent value. Opened in March 2014, it features a market-led chalkboard menu with seasonally changing options. The restaurant is known for its homely dishes, making it perfect for family get-togethers. Fresh, handmade pasta and a diverse wine selection from various Italian regions add to the charm. Artusi is open daily for dinner and for lunch from Thursday to Sunday.
Isola by San Carlo, St Christopher’s Place
Isola by San Carlo, inspired by Sicily, is a bright and eclectic Italian restaurant located just moments from Selfridges on Oxford Street. As an Italian brasserie and bar, it offers a twist on Sicilian favourites. The San Carlo Group, with a history dating back to their first restaurant opening in Birmingham in 1992, now boasts 25 UK restaurants and several global locations in Kuwait, Bangkok, and Qatar.
Manteca, Great Marlborough Street
Manteca, the brainchild of Chris Leach and David Carter, has become a permanent fixture after their successful residency at 10 Heddon Street. This restaurant is renowned for its fresh pasta dishes and nose-to-tail Italian-inspired cuisine. The simple, diner-style setting features wood-fired breads and a wine list that celebrates low-intervention and classic fine wines from Italy, broader Europe, and North America.
