20 of the best Italian restaurants in London to get booking now
Pizza, pasta and small plates galore
Get ready to embark on a culinary journey through the heart of London, with our pick of the best Italian restaurants in the city. Whether you're craving a leisurely three-course feast or a quick pit stop, ensure your Italian dining experience is nothing short of exceptional. From cosy corners to vibrant spots with modern flair, these restaurants offer a diverse range of settings to suit every mood. Join us as we explore the flavours, aromas, and ambiance that make each of these restaurants a standout spot for Italian cuisine enthusiasts.
Forty Dean Street
Where to find them: 40 Dean Street, London W1D 4PX
Nearest tube station: Leicester Square
We order: Spaghetti vongole followed by the pistachio tiramisu
A family run restaurant, headed up by Nima Safaei Forty Dean Street is the ideal place for a long Italian lunch in the sun. Make sure to grab one of the tables outside and settle in for a feast, and be sure to try at least one of the restaurant's pastas which are their specialties and made fresh daily, we'd recommend the spaghetti vongole. The staff are warm and friendly and the portion sizes are decent too, and make sure to leave space for dessert - the pistachio tiramisu and the profiteroles are particular highlights.
Manteca, Shoreditch
Where to find them: 49-51 Curtain Rd, London EC2A 3PT
Nearest tube station: Old Street
We order: You can't go to Manteca and not order the n'duja mussels
Manteca constantly pops up on our FYPs as one of the best Italian restaurants in London, and for good reason too. The restaurant specialises in nose to tail cooked meats and hand rolled pasta. We're of course, all about the pasta, which includes offerings such as pappardelle with beef shin ragu and malloreddus with blue fin tuna bolognese. You also need to check out their cocktail menu, which is full of incredible creations like the grandpa daiquri and the pea fizz.
Campania and Jones
Where to find them: 23 Ezra St, London E2 7RH
Nearest tube station: Hoxton
We order: Whatever you do, don't leave without having a portion of gnudi
Ok, so this is the plan: after a morning spent wandering around Columbia Flower Market, you're heading to Campania and Jones, for the longest and most delicious Sunday lunch. The restaurant focuses on dishes from the south of Italy, with fresh pasta made daily, that you can also buy to make at home. Make sure to order some gndui (gnocchi style dumplings made with ricotta), a variety of pastas and the 28 day aged ribeye.
Padella, Shoreditch
Where to find them: 1 Phipp St, London EC2A 4PS
Nearest tube station: Shoreditch High Street
We order: The fettuccine with Cobble Lane nduja, lemon and mascarpone every single time
There are two Padella locations in London, the original is in Borough Market, but we prefer the one in Shoreditch - it's bigger, brighter and there's more chance of grabbing a table too. Padella specialises in pasta dishes with a limited but incredible menu, including dishes like the pici cacio e pepe and the tagliarini with Dorset crab, chilli and lemon.
Sparrow Italia, Mayfair
Where to find them: 1-3 Avery Row, London W1K 4AJ
Nearest tube station: Bond Street
We order: The Cacio e Pepe
Sparrow Italia offers a culinary escape to the heart of Italy. The restaurant oozes authenticity with sexy ambiance and warm, welcoming staff, and the quality of the ingredients are evident from the first bite. It’s officially truffle season at Sparrow, so whether it's the Wagyu Carpaccio with pickled seasonal mushrooms or the Cacio e Pepe, served in a pecorino wheel and topped with shavings of fresh truffle, you're bound to walk away feeling full and satisfied.
Trullo, Highbury and Islington
Where to find them: 300-302 St Paul's Rd, London N1 2LH
Nearest tube station: Highbury & Islington
We order: Pappardelle with beef shin ragu
This Italian haven beckons thanks to the chefs skilfully crafting fresh pasta, visible through the restaurants window. A daily-evolving menu promises a new experience with every visit.
Keep an eye out for the beef shin ragu and the lemon tart. While dinner reservations are recommended for a guaranteed spot, lunch is often a great idea as walk-ins are warmly accepted.
Como Garden, Kensington
Where to find them: 37-45 Kensington High St, London W8 5ED
Nearest tube station: High Street Kensington
We order: The wild mushroom risotto
If you're after an authentic Italian feel, you have to head to Como Garden. With a tapas-style menu stuffed full of classics like rich aubergine parmigiana, truffle arancini and creamy taglioni, as well as signature cocktails like a refreshing Fizz Gin, you'll be absolutely spoiled for choice.
If you've got space for dessert (that's what your second dessert stomach is for!), the tiramisu is a must, washed down with a nice glass of red wine, of course.
Napoli On The Road, Chiswick
Where to find them: 9A Devonshire Rd, Chiswick, London W4 2EU
Nearest tube station: Turnham Green
We order: Garlic bread, caprese salad and marinara pizza
An Italian gem in Chiswick that has taken Instagram by a storm, thanks to its pizzas. Beyond the viral sensation, their menu showcases dishes offerings like tiramisu and truffle bruschetta. The atmosphere is a blend of cosiness and intimacy, creating the perfect backdrop for a memorable Italian experience. Despite its popularity, Napoli on the Road is super affordable, ensuring a wallet-friendly feast and a warm and friendly service.
Bancone, various locations
Where to find them: Covent Garden, Soho, Borough Yards (the Covent Garden restaurant is the original and the best)
We order: The silk handkerchiefs with walnut butter and confit egg yolk followed by a praline cannoli
For cosy and intimate vibes - and amazing pasta - look no further than Bancone. Their stripped back, simplistic menu is packed full of flavour, with fresh pasta made every day on site. You have to try the silk handkerchiefs, walnut butter, confit egg yolk - a delicious, smooth bowl of thick pasta ribbons that melt in your mouth.
Bocca Di Lupo, Soho
Where to find them: 12 Archer St, London W1D 7BB
Nearest tube station: Piccadilly Circus
We order: Don't leave without trying the grilled seafood pic 'n' mix with gremolata
For an authentic Italian dining experience made up of big and small plates, Bocca Di Lupo is your place (they also offer the perfect pre-theatre menu, too.) The menu is updated regularly (sometimes twice a day) to ensure everything is as fresh and seasonal as possible, while the restaurant is light and airy. Expect a mixture of pasta and risottos, as well as meat and fish from the grill, as well as fresh salads full of texture and flavour on the side.
Lina Stores, various locations
Where to find them: Clapham, Soho, Marylebone, The City and King's Cross
We order: Ravioli with burrata and salsa di datterini
With multiple locations across London, you know Lina Stores is going to be good. The original restaurant began as a shop in Soho over 80 years ago, and since then has developed into a chain of Italian restaurants everyone wants a seat at. We like going to the Greek Street location and sitting at the bar as the chefs whip up pasta classics like the burrata ravioli, the pici with Umbrian sausage and the casarecce alla Calabrese. The service is usually pretty quick making it ideal for a quick lunch or early dinner.
Luca, Clerkenwell
Where to find them: 88 St John St, London EC1M 4EH
Nearest tube station: Farringdon
We order: The parmesan fries and tortelli of bronte pistachio
Walking into the restaurant feels like finding your favourite private spot; it's got such a buzzing vibe. Surprise, surprise — it's from The Clove Club family. Their Italian food is the main event. It goes between classic and cool effortlessly, with just the right touch of creativity. Luca works with top-notch ingredients and dishes that range from Burrata with winter panzanella and Agnolotti carbonara. Luca's got that magic touch, making it a go-to spot where the vibes, food, and good times come together.
Sorella, Clapham
Where to find them: 148 Clapham Manor St, London SW4 6BX
Nearest tube station: Clapham Common
We order: BBQ monkfish, red pepper, n'duja & leeks, followed by an affogato
Sister restaurant to The Dairy and Counter Culture, Sorella is not to be missed. Thanks to their spicy margaritas and on the nose negronis, your night will be off to a brilliant start from the get-go, and that's before you get to the family style menu where sharing is encouraged. Expect all the classics (hello, truffle arancini and wild mushroom tagliatelle) alongside some new favourites - BBQ trout, n’duja and octopus linguini and whipped panna cotta to finish. Yum.
Norma, Fitzrovia
Where to find them: 8 Charlotte St., London W1T 2LS
Nearest tube station: Tottenham Court Road
We order: Do the tasting menu so you get a chance to try everything
Norma embarks on a culinary experience that surpasses expectations. The restaurant's stylish ambience flawlessly complements its diverse Sicilian-inspired menu. From the first bite, Norma's commitment to showcasing the vibrant flavours of Italian cuisine with a modern twist becomes evident. Standout dishes like the Crab Linguine, Black Tagliolini and the Monkfish with Squid scream quality. Whether it’s a romantic evening or a celebration with friends, Norma guarantees a memorable dining Italian adventure.
Flour & Grape, London Bridge
Where to find them: 214 Bermondsey St, London SE1 3TQ
Nearest tube station: London Bridge
We order: Their most well known dish, the spaghetti carbonara
Flour and Grape, positioned at the end of Bermondsey Street, is a culinary gem that lives up to its super-popular reputation. The no-reservation policy means you might encounter a wait, but the nice staff and the vibrant atmosphere make it worthwhile. The truffle pasta and spinach ricotta pasta are exceptional, and despite the restaurant's popularity, prices remain reasonable. Flour and Grape delivers an Italian dining experience, proving that good things come to those who wait.
Ave Mario, Covent Garden
Where to find them: 15 Henrietta St, London WC2E 8QG
Nearest tube station: Leicester Square
We order: The Emrata Burrata pizza of course
Ave Mario, part of the renowned Big Mamma chain, is a captivating Italian paradise spanning 700m². Its vibrant interior exudes fun, creating an Instagrammable haven. The pasta, prepared theatrically in a 4kg pecorino wheel, is a standout, complemented by the famed lemon meringue pie. Make sure to try the dolci, an airy chocolate mousse with oozy chocolate fondant. Whether for lunch or dinner, Ave Mario is a visually fun and equally tasty choice.
Luci, Covent Garden
Where to find them: 136 Long Acre, London WC2E 9AA
Nearest tube station: Leicester Square
We order: Gorgonzola, Taleggio and truffle pizza
You can’t miss this grand and expansive restaurant on a busy Covent Garden street. There is so much to offer in this restaurant; the ground floor boasts a casual dining room/bakery, featuring a glass counter with an array of gelato, pastries, sandwiches, antipasti, lasagne, fresh bread, and pizzas from a wood-fired oven. Upstairs, a more formal dining room which offers a serene ambiance and traditional restaurant service. Accommodating over 200 guests and occupying a historic space resembling a former bank, you can pop here for a quick light bite or a proper Italian feast.
La Goccia, Covent Garden
Where to find them: 1 Floral St, London WC2E 9FB
Nearest tube station: Leicester Square
We order: Burrata and caponata, zucchini fritti, orecchiette alla norma and make sure to try their coccoli
The Italian restaurant at Petersham Nurseries, which has a gorgeous secluded courtyard surrounded by lemon trees (lit up by festoon bulbs on balmy evenings.) Enjoy seasonal plates of cicchetti prepared by chefs in front of you while sipping on limoncello spritz and campari soda. Open from 11:30am to 10:30pm, it’s perfect for midday sun or cooler sunsets.
Caminata, Balham
Where to find them: 96 Bedford Hill, London SW12 9HR
Nearest tube station: Balham
We order: Aubergine parmigiana
For an Italian that screams local, head to Caminata for pizza, pasta and other classics. Their aubergine parmigiana is truly not to be missed, while their pizzas manage to be both crunchy and soft at the same time - incorporating the best parts of a sourdough pizza. Plus you'll often be waved out the door with a shot of limoncello - what's not to love?
Bocconcino, Soho
Where to find them: 59 Great Marlborough St, London W1F 7JY
Nearest tube station: Oxford Circus
We order: Tuna tartare followed by ravioli with prawns, sea bass and truffle
Bocconcino Soho, acclaimed as the Best Luxury Restaurant at the British Restaurant Awards, oozes sophistication with its sleek marble countertops and an extensive cocktail selection, evoking the charm of the Italian coast. Offering top-tier Italian cuisine, highlights include fresh seafood, hearty meat dishes, handmade pasta, and wood-fired pizzas.
Located near Oxford Circus and Carnaby Street, seasonal specialties like grilled tuna filet and Josper Grill plates complement classics like rigatoni with Scottish beef rib-eye. Indulge in unique cocktails or explore an extensive wine list curated by Head Sommelier Ennio Pucciarelli. Experience the ultimate Italian feast in Soho's stunning ambiance.
Jaime holds the position of UK Art Editor at Cosmopolitan, overseeing all things digital design across the brand. Her role encompasses the art direction of our digital covers, the animation of our forthcoming video franchises, designing Cosmo's social media presence and the curation of the visual identity across Cosmopolitan UK. Before joining Cosmopolitan, Jaime has gained experience working with renowned brands including ELLE, Stylist Magazine, and Woman's Health. Notably, her contributions to the world of design were recently recognised with the prestigious BSME's 2023 Designer of the Year award. Find her on LinkedIn, Instagram and Twitter.
Dusty Baxter-Wright is an award-winning journalist and the Entertainment and Lifestyle Director at Cosmopolitan, having previously worked at Sugarscape. She was named one of PPA’s 30 Under 30 for her work covering pop culture, careers, interiors and travel, and oversees the site’s Entertainment and Lifestyle strategy across print, digital and video. As a journalist for the best part of a decade, she has interviewed everyone from Louis Theroux and Channing Tatum to Margot Robbie and Ncuti Gatwa, while she has also spoken on Times Radio and BBC Radio. You can find her on Twitter and Instagram here.
Lydia Venn is Cosmopolitan UK’s Senior Entertainment and Lifestyle Writer. She covers everything from TV and film, to the latest celebrity news. She also writes across our work/life section regularly creating quizzes, covering exciting new food releases and sharing the latest interior must-haves. In her role she’s interviewed everyone from Margot Robbie to Niall Horan, and her work has appeared on an episode of The Kardashians. After completing a degree in English at the University of Exeter, Lydia moved into fashion journalism, writing for the Daily Express, before working as Features Editor at The Tab, where she spoke on BBC Radio 4’s Woman’s Hour and Talk Radio. She has an encyclopedic knowledge of Gilmore Girls and 00s teen movies, and in her free time can be found with a margarita in hand watching the Real Housewives on repeat. Find her on LinkedIn.
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