I’m the sort of person that is happy to have some simple but flavoursome food. Equally as delighted to have something with a bit more spice and indulgence. However, my love for Italian food will be something that will never fade. It simply ticks all the boxes for ‘simple and flavoursome’, especially as you know you’re always going to find something you like. I mean, i’m partial to some good spaghetti or pappardelle pasta but if there is nothing on the menu that takes my fancy, there is pizza. You can never go wrong with pizza, that’s for sure. If the person you’re going with is not a fan of carbohydrates (they aren’t uncommon), there is always fresh and light chicken and fish dishes available.
I’ve dined about my fair share of Italian restaurants over the past few months, so I thought it was about time I shared my favourites with you. These are the restaurants where you will find authentic food, like you’re in the heart of Rome. You won’t need to travel many miles to get quality prosecco or focaccia bread with these restaurants around.
1. Margot
Margot was a restaurant I had wanted to try for while, especially after Binny went with her husband. On visiting, it definitely made it to one of my favourite Italian’s list. It was so authentic, fresh and the interior was just stunning. The food is just perfect and the service is on another level. I would recommend having the Tonnarelli al tartufo Norcino, which is Tonnarelli with extra virgin olive oil, garlic, chili and black truffle, as pictured above and the tiramisu.
2. Theo Randall
Theo Randall is a chef that I had admired for quite some time. From his talents of producing excellent Italian food to his friendly demeanour, he has always been a chef to watch. I had tried his second restaurant before the first, Theo’s Simple Italian is exactly what it says in the title. However, Theo Randall at the InterContinental is the full fledged concept. Fresh ingredients and everything is made to order. Catering for many different allergies and intolerances, it makes a perfect spot for dinner. I would recommend ordering the Pappardelle con cavolo nero (pictured above) and the Ravioli di zucca. If you like tangy and sweet cocktails, I would recommend Martini d’Amalfi.
3. Padella
Everyone has heard of Padella on Borough High Street, because of the immensely long queues of people wanting to dine there. Even the likes of Michel Roux Jr. was there too. Let me tell you, the restaurant is worth waiting in the queue for. The dishes are cooked up fresh in front of you, as you sit around the counter and watch the chefs at work. The food is insanely good, just like home-cooked food by a true Italian. I would recommend having the 8-hour Dexter beef shin pappardelle, the meat is slow cooked to perfect and the pasta is the freshest i’ve ever had in London.
4. Fucina
Binny and I found Fucina on a whim. We were looking for some fine dining Italian, but somewhere we haven’t been before. Little did we know that this was Marylebone’s latest Italian gem. We were completely head over heels for this restaurant because it had so much character and the food was excellent. A restaurant that is underrated that more people to find and discover the true delights. I would recommend the Pappardelle Della Nonna and the Spatchcock Diavola with sweet potato wedges.
5. Bocconcino
Bocconcino is a restaurant was almost found on a whim, whilst in Mayfair, after Binny and I could not get a table at Gymkhana. I know, Indian to Italian, but I didn’t I say it’s simple and easy? It was so worth it too, because I uncovered an amazing Italian restaurant in the heart of Mayfair. Its elegant interiors and modern Italian menu, makes it the perfect date night spot – even with friends. I would recommend the black truffle tagliatelle because I just fell in love with the dish. Simple but yummy!
These are my top 5 favourite Italian restaurants in London. What are yours?
Until next time…
