If you're looking for the best Italian restaurants in London, you've come to the right place. With an estimated 6.8 million people living in London and a bustling food scene, choosing where to eat can be challenging. Fortunately, many incredible Italian restaurants are ready to tantalize your taste buds and offer some of the best meals.

From traditional Roman-style pizzas cooked with authentic Napoli ingredients to succulent dishes from northern Italy's countryside prepared by highly skilled chefs - the variety is endless! So if you're after an unforgettable dining experience for a special occasion or want something delicious on a night out with friends, let us guide you through London's premier selection of Italian eateries, sure to satisfy.

How we choose the best Italian restaurants in London

Our list of the best Italian restaurants in London was created after carefully considering many factors. Among them, we looked at the quality of food served, how well-priced the menu items are, and whether or not an eatery offers a unique atmosphere and experience.

We also gave extra points to establishments that source local ingredients from nearby farms or utilize seasonal produce. With these criteria in mind, we've compiled a list of the top Italian restaurants in London that will satisfy your cravings.

Best Italian Restaurants In London

La Campagna

This cozy restaurant is located near Soho Square and offers classic Italian dishes with delightful surprises. The menu highlights regional specialties from Emilia Romagna, such as tagliolini alla Nerano, a unique dish with zucchini and authentic buffalo mozzarella.

They also serve homemade pizza and have an extensive wine list. La Campagna is perfect for a romantic dinner or celebrating special occasions.

Luca, Clerkenwell

Luca, located in Clerkenwell, is a stylish Italian restaurant serving traditional dishes in a modern atmosphere. The menu features classic pasta dishes and creative options like mussels with white wine and garlic. The restaurant has an extensive selection of wines to complement the meal, and the friendly staff is always willing to make recommendations.

Luca also offers weekend brunch menus and special prix fixe menus for celebrations. The intimate restaurant has an outdoor area perfect for al fresco dining during summer. Whether you’re looking for a romantic dinner or family brunch, Luca will surely make your experience unforgettable.

For those who want to linger, there's a bar where you can sip on handcrafted cocktails and Italian beers. Luca is sure to satisfy your craving for delicious Italian cuisine.

Manteca, Shoreditch

Manteca, located in Shoreditch, is one of the hottest Italian restaurants in London. This stylish eatery offers modern-style Italian dishes focusing on seasonal ingredients from local producers and suppliers. The menu features traditional favorites such as Caprese salad, freshly-made pasta dishes like Pappardelle con Ragu alla Bolognese, and unique dishes like Focaccia con Pancetta e Rucola.

The friendly staff will help you choose the perfect wine to complement your meal. Manteca is a great spot for a romantic dinner or evening out with friends, offering a lively atmosphere and delicious food. Whether you're in the mood for classic Italian fare or something more experimental, Manteca will surely leave you wanting more.

Bardo, St James

Bardo, located in St James, is a unique Italian restaurant with an exquisite dining experience. The menu features classic pasta dishes and creative options like seabass cooked with fennel, chili pepper, and olive oil. Bardo has a modern interior design featuring beautiful lighting fixtures and plush seating booths for maximum comfort.

The bar serves handcrafted cocktails, specialty wines, and Italian beers. The restaurant prides itself on fresh local ingredients, seasonal produce, and traditional items from Italy's diverse regions.

Whether looking for a romantic dinner or a cozy night out with friends, Bardo will provide an unforgettable experience. The friendly staff is always available to help you make the perfect selection from their wide collection of dishes and drinks.

Noci, Islington

Noci, located in Islington, is a modern Italian restaurant serving classic dishes with a twist. The menu features seasonal ingredients from local producers and suppliers and includes pasta dishes like Fettuccine alla Castellana and unique options such as Grilled Octopus with peas puree.

Noci also offers serving an extensive selection of wines to complement the meal. The modern interior design features cozy booths and beautiful lighting fixtures, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. The knowledgeable staff will help you choose from an impressive variety of drinks, including Italian craft beers, classic cocktails, and unique wines.

Whether you’re looking for a romantic dinner or want to spend time with friends, Noci will surely provide a memorable experience. The restaurant is the perfect spot for an unforgettable Italian experience.

Campania & Jones, East London

Campania & Jones is an Italian restaurant in East London that offers a unique dining experience. The menu features classic pasta dishes and creative options like Seabass with fennel, chili pepper, and olive oil. They also serve delicious pizzas cooked with authentic Napoli ingredients and homemade desserts.

The atmosphere at Campania & Jones combines modern design with cozy comfort, creating a relaxed and warm atmosphere. The knowledgeable staff can provide helpful recommendations and guide you through the impressive selection of Italian wines. Whether looking for a romantic dinner or want to spend time with friends, Campania & Jones is sure to provide an unforgettable experience.

Campania & Jones is the perfect spot for classic Italian cuisine, from classic dishes to unique surprises. The restaurant also offers private dining rooms and outdoor seating for those who want to enjoy the summer sun.

Pizzeria Mozza, Marylebone

Pizzeria Mozza is a popular Italian restaurant located in Marylebone, London. The menu features classic Italian dishes and inventive and creative options like grilled octopus with peas puree. At Pizzeria Mozza, only the freshest ingredients are used to create traditional recipes and seasonal specials. The warm atmosphere combines modern design with cozy comfort, creating the perfect spot for a romantic dinner or night out with friends.

The knowledgeable staff can provide helpful recommendations and guide you through the impressive selection of wines from Italy's diverse regions. Pizzeria Mozza also has an extensive selection of craft beers and classic cocktails to complement your meal.

Whether looking for classic Italian fare or something more experimental, Pizzeria Mozza will surely leave you wanting more. Pizzeria Mozza is the perfect place for an unforgettable Italian experience with its delicious food, warm atmosphere, and helpful staff.

FAQS

Why do Italian restaurants take so long?

Italian restaurants take longer than other restaurants because they cook with fresh, seasonal ingredients and traditional recipes. Italian cooking is very precise and takes a lot of time to prepare. Many Italian restaurants have an open kitchen so that customers can watch as their meal is prepared, which can add to the time it takes for your food to arrive at the table.

Why is food important to Italian culture?

Food is central to Italian culture, allowing families and friends to come together and share a meal. Eating in Italy is about nutrition and gathering with loved ones to celebrate and enjoy each other’s company. Food represents tradition and innovation, with recipes passed down from generation to generation while incorporating new and exciting ingredients.

Why is Italian food healthier?

Italian food is healthier because it uses fresh ingredients and traditional recipes low in fat, salt, and processed sugar. Italian cooking emphasizes flavor over quantity, with dishes cooked yet deliciously. For example, instead of frying meats or vegetables, they are usually cooked in olive oil, which is rich in healthy fats and vitamins.

Conclusion

London is a haven for Italian cuisine enthusiasts. Whether you're in the mood for a classic bolognese, some traditional pizza, or a delicious dessert, plenty of incredible restaurants will satisfy your Italian food cravings. It's easy to see why these restaurants have earned their top spots when trying the dishes yourself. From the broad menu of options at Ristorante Fresco to the rustic ambiance of The Angel & Crown, these eateries prove that Italian dining in London has never been more delectable.