The best Italian restaurants in London: A taste of Italy in the heart of the city

Italian restaurant

London is known for its vibrant and diverse culinary scene, and Italian cuisine holds a special place in the hearts of many food lovers. The city is home to a wealth of Italian restaurants, ranging from casual trattorias to refined establishments offering authentic dishes that reflect the true essence of Italy. Whether you’re in the mood for fresh pasta, wood-fired pizza, or innovative Italian fine dining, London has something for everyone. 

Locanda Locatelli

Located in the elegant neighborhood of Marylebone, Locanda Locatelli is one of London’s most prestigious Italian restaurants, boasting a Michelin star for its outstanding interpretation of traditional Italian cuisine. The restaurant, helmed by renowned chef Giorgio Locatelli, offers a warm and stylish atmosphere, perfect for both intimate dinners and celebratory gatherings. The average price per person is around £120 to £150, and the menu focuses on regional Italian dishes with a modern twist. 

Parking options are limited, but there is valet service available, and the restaurant is conveniently close to Marble Arch Tube Station, just a five-minute walk away. Signature dishes like the risotto with seasonal truffles and roasted veal with polenta are particular standouts, showcasing Locatelli’s refined approach to authentic Italian flavors. Customers rave about the balance between tradition and innovation, with many praising the exceptional service and the extensive wine list featuring some of Italy’s finest vintages.

Bocca di Lupo

In the heart of Soho, Bocca di Lupo has earned a stellar reputation for its rustic, regional Italian dishes. The restaurant offers a lively and casual dining experience with an open kitchen where diners can watch the chefs at work. The average price per person is around £50 to £80, making it one of the more affordable yet high-quality Italian dining experiences in London. There is limited street parking in the area, but public transport is easily accessible, with Tottenham Court Road and Leicester Square Tube Stations both a short walk away.

Bocca di Lupo is celebrated for its focus on seasonal ingredients and its rotating menu of dishes from different regions of Italy. Highlights include the tagliatelle with wild boar ragu and the deep-fried artichokes, which are often mentioned by diners as must-try items. The atmosphere is lively and informal, and many customers appreciate the knowledgeable and friendly staff who enhance the dining experience. It’s a great place for those looking to explore authentic Italian flavors in a relaxed setting.

River Café

Situated on the banks of the Thames in Hammersmith, River Café is an iconic London institution that has been serving up top-quality Italian cuisine for decades. Known for its simple yet sophisticated dishes, River Café holds a Michelin star and is famed for its emphasis on fresh, seasonal ingredients sourced directly from Italy. The average price per person is around £150 to £200, and it’s a favorite for those seeking an elevated Italian dining experience.

The restaurant offers on-site parking for guests, and Hammersmith Tube Station is about a 15-minute walk away. Signature dishes include the chargrilled squid with chili and lemon, and the homemade pasta with a variety of sauces, each one bursting with flavor. The open-plan dining area and the lush riverside setting create a relaxed yet refined atmosphere. Customers frequently praise the simplicity of the food, the impeccable service, and the high-quality ingredients that are the heart of River Café’s culinary philosophy.

Sartoria

Located on Savile Row in Mayfair, Sartoria offers a refined and elegant take on Italian cuisine, combining modern flair with traditional recipes. Executive Chef Francesco Mazzei, known for his expertise in Southern Italian cuisine, brings a touch of sophistication to classic Italian dishes. The average price per person ranges from £80 to £120, making it a great option for those looking for an upscale dining experience. Valet parking is available, and the restaurant is well-connected by public transport, with Piccadilly Circus and Green Park Tube Stations just a short walk away.

Sartoria’s standout dishes include the veal Milanese and the signature ravioli filled with burrata, which are consistently praised by guests for their rich flavors and impeccable presentation. The stylish interior and attention to detail in both food and service make Sartoria a favorite among those seeking a chic dining experience in London’s West End. Customers often highlight the excellent wine list, featuring an extensive selection of Italian wines that perfectly complement the dishes.

Luca

In the trendy neighborhood of Clerkenwell, Luca offers a modern twist on Italian cuisine with a British influence, all within a beautifully designed space that combines elegance with a relaxed atmosphere. The menu focuses on seasonal ingredients, with pasta made in-house and dishes that reflect Italy’s culinary heritage with a contemporary edge. The average price per person is between £60 and £90, making it accessible while still delivering an exceptional dining experience.

While parking is limited, the restaurant is well-served by public transport, with Farringdon Tube Station just a 10-minute walk away. Popular dishes include the parmesan fries, rabbit ragu, and the ricotta gnocchi, which are frequently mentioned by customers as highlights. The restaurant’s modern aesthetic, combined with the warm and attentive service, makes it a popular spot for both casual dinners and special occasions. Diners appreciate the balance between traditional Italian techniques and innovative flavors, making Luca one of the most exciting Italian restaurants in the city.

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