London’s culinary scene is a melting pot of global flavours, but when it comes to Italian cuisine, the city’s offerings are exceptional. From cozy trattorias serving rustic, homemade pasta to upscale ristorantes offering innovative takes on classic dishes, London is home to some of the finest Italian restaurants outside of Italy. Whether you’re craving a perfect slice of wood-fired pizza, a rich and creamy risotto, or a glass of fine Chianti to complement your meal, here’s our guide to the best Italian restaurants in London.
Sartoria
Nestled on the prestigious Savile Row, Sartoria is a testament to refined Italian dining in the heart of London. The restaurant exudes elegance, with its sleek interiors and warm, sophisticated ambiance, perfectly capturing the essence of Italian luxury. The menu, curated by Chef Francesco Mazzei, offers a delightful array of dishes that marry traditional flavours with contemporary flair, from delicate pasta dishes to succulent meats and fresh seafood. Not to be overlooked is the stylish bar at Sartoria, Sophia’s which takes inspiration from the iconic actress, Sophia Loren. This intagramable long bar is flanked with stunning blooms and roses. The cocktail menu is a tribute to moments and themes from Loren’s life. Guests can indulge in the La Diva Americana, a vibrant citrus blend reflecting Loren’s international appeal, or savour the Everlasting Love, which delicately balances floral notes to evoke timeless romance. It’s a stylish spot perfect for drinks post shopping.
Alto by San Carlo
Perched atop Selfridges, Alto by San Carlo offers a dining experience that blends chic, modern design with the vibrant flavours of Italy. The rooftop setting, adorned with lush greenery and bright floral accents, creates an oasis-like atmosphere that feels worlds away from the bustling streets below. But Alto isn’t just one of the best spots for al fresco dining in London. With a fully retractable roof, the restaurant and bar is open all year round, so you can dine under the sun or stars come rain or shine, seven days a week. The menu is a celebration of Italian cuisine, featuring a range of dishes from fresh seafood and handmade pasta to wood-fired pizzas, all prepared with high-quality ingredients and a touch of Mediterranean flair. The restaurant’s relaxed yet stylish vibe makes it perfect for both leisurely lunches and elegant dinners, while the panoramic views of London’s skyline add an extra touch of magic to every meal. Whether you’re indulging in a classic tiramisu or sipping on a refreshing Aperol Spritz, Alto by San Carlo promises a delightful escape into the heart of Italy.
Spagnoletti
Located on the ground floor of The Megaro hotel, a stone’s throw from Kings Cross station is Spagnoletti, a fun, buzzing restaurant serving delicious ‘tapas’ style Italian plates. Enter the restaurant through a yellow telephone box into a bright, industrial space set over two floors. Yellow accents, exposed pipework and wall mounted lava lamps set a playful tone but don’t let this fool you, the food is serious. Double Michelin star-winning chef, Adam Simmonds is the talent behind the menu. Having worked under Raymond Blanc at Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons before achieving his first Michelin Star at Ynyshir Hall in Wales and his second at Adam Simmonds at Danesfield House, he’s bringing both his passion and trademark bold flavours to Spagnoletti. The restaurant’s open kitchen is where the action is at. Menu highlights include Open ravioli with whole native lobster, cime di rapa and girolles, as well as Monkfish with cavolo nero, caper, pine nut and anchovy. Share plates such as Suckling pig and black pudding croquette, Wild mushrooms and truffle arancini with goat’s cheese and a modern take on the classic Bruschetta are a must. Service is slick and staff are on hand to offer recommendations, four dishes per person is more than enough. Afterwards head to Hokus Pokus bar, a quirky cocktail bar situated in the basement of the hotel. The cocktails here are outrageously good and the vibe even better. Spagnoletti is a Kings Cross hidden gem punching above its weight and well worth a visit.
Paper Moon
Paper Moon was founded in Milan in 1977, where it became embedded in the city’s culinary scene before opening sites worldwide. The London outpost inside the OWO, Whitehall is intimate, luxurious and oozes old-school glamour. Executive Chef Leonardo Pieri Buti and his team, use the finest produce to take diners on a culinary exploration around Italy with classic Milanese dishes alongside signature recipes from other regions. Guests can sample fresh pasta such as Chitarra with baby squid, mussels, clams and chilli, or the restaurant’s namesake Pappardelle Paper Moon with bacon, tomato and cream. Other signature dishes include Coda di Rospo of grilled monkfish with Jerusalem artichoke cream and asparagus, and Milanese favourite Ossobuco di Vitello, braised veal shank with saffron risotto. The Pizze selection has classics such as the Quattro Formaggi alongside an exclusive London offering of Pizza OWO with a sweet cherry tomato base, mozzarella, spicy salami and fresh chilli. Traditional Italian desserts such as Tiramisu, Panna Cotta, and Semifreddo al Torrone provide the perfect sweet conclusion to the Paper Moon dining experience.
To elevate your culinary experience in London this autumn, don’t miss out on exploring some of the best restaurants and bars across the city. From chic rooftop spots to cozy hidden gems, there’s something to satisfy every palate. For a broader selection of dining options this season, check out our guide on where to eat in London this autumn.
Il Pampero at The Hari
Tucked away in the heart of London’s Belgravia, The Hari hotel is home to il Pampero, a chic, modern Italian restaurant serving seasonal dishes such as Artichoke tortellini with Pecorino fondue, crispy Jerusalem artichoke and fresh pesto, and Parma ham wrapped monkfish featuring a saffron & mussel “guazzetto” and cannellini bean cream. For those seeking an evening of frivolous fun, the tiramisu trolley is a must-order! Guests can also while away the hours sipping classic and creative cocktails in the stylish Hari Bar or elegant Garden Terrace, a hidden indoor-outdoor oasis perfect for sipping speciality drinks.
Murano
Angela Hartnett’s Michelin-Starred flagship restaurant in the heart of Mayfair is like a love letter to her passion for Italian cooking. The menu, inspired by her grandmother pays homage to northern Italy. From the delicate hand-rolled pasta to the rich, flavourful meats, every bite at Murano reflects Hartnett’s deep respect for traditional Italian cooking, elevated by her own innovative flair. The service is attentive without being intrusive, for those wanting a more interactive experience, Angela and her team can design a tasting with wine pairing as part of a chef’s table experience.
Padella
Snag your place in the virtual queue, then while you wait, take a stroll around the bustling Borough Market. Once inside Padella, dive into a menu dedicated to pasta featuring pappardelle with eight-hour Dexter beef shin ragu; and Pici cacio and pepe. All the pasta is hand-rolled in house with the sauces and fillings inspired by the owners’ trips to Italy. If you manage to get a seat at the kitchen counter you can watch the chefs at work. There’s a small selection of quality wines to choose from as well as some great aperitives. Service here is fast and friendly.
