5 Incredible Italian Restaurants in London Worth Raving About

I’m a HUGE Italian foodie fan. Give me pizza and pasta all day everyday please.

I’ve been to tons of places in London and surrounds and wanted to shout from the rooftops about my top five in today’s post.

Before I delve in… I have included direct links to my top 5 restaurants mentioned below. The links are in grey. I don’t usually do links on my blog anymore, however, for ease of everyone interested and reading this post I have included them just in case any-one would like to book or just have a little nose on their menus or websites. They are not affiliate links.

Padella

This place has been on my list of restaurants to try for years and years. Every time I walk by it has such long queues.

Joe and I chanced Padella at Borough Market on a random Monday lunch-time a little while back and we got really lucky. We had one of the best seats. The view in front of the chefs making delicious pasta and Italian dishes.

The service and atmosphere was 11/10. I felt like I was watching a live episode of The Bear, however, without the dramas. Very efficient, organised and fun to watch.

The pastas range from £9 to £16. Super affordable. We went for a chilli infused pasta and then a creamier one. Very tasty. The star of the show for me was the incredible tiramisu, that was the BEST I’ve ever eaten. Seriously, go try it and thank me later.

Circolo Popolare

Ah, I do love the Big Mamma Group resturants. Great vibes, beautiful decor and wonderful foods. Circolo Popolare is a firm favourite.

We went yonks ago, however, the lemon meringue pie will forever be in my dreams.

Shared some fancy bread for starters. I had truffle pasta here for my main, loved it, although was a tad small for my liking. Joe and I shared the infamous lemon meringue pie for dessert as it was bloody massive. Joe finished his meal with an espresso and ‘the powder of love’ – very amusing.

I loved the beats in the background too. It’s such a great atmosphere. Perfect for date nights, special occasions and what not.

Carlotta

Also part of the Big Mamma Group is Carlotta. Has a kind of 70’s vibe, however they state its 80’s.

This restaurant is truly wonderful. Classy and fun, the truffle pasta for 2 is so divine and indulgent, the wedding cake is dramatic and special too.

Had a great time here during a spontaneous date-day in London. Our waitress was really lovely too.

Homeslice

If you’re after the BEST pizza in London, I’d highly recommend Homeslice. Franco Manca is a favourite of mine too. However, the vegetarian toppings at Homeslice are so interesting and of course, amazing… also the pizzas are so BIG. I believe they are 20″ pizzas. However you can purchase a slice or two if your tummy isn’t rumbling.

We haven’t actually been to Homeslice in a long old time, so I think we will pay them a visit at some point soon.

Per Tutti

Lastly, I thought I’d include a favourite local Italian of mine. Per Tutti. This restaurant is honestly so good. I tend to go to the Berkhamsted branch. They have one in St Albans too and they are on the cusp of opening a new one in Radlett I believe.

Anyway, the pasta dishes are beautiful. So creamy, so delicious and so perfect. Super affordable too.

I am a creature of habit and order the same creamy veggie pasta every single time, I do want to try their pizzas at some point soon.

I’ve taken my mum to Per Tutti for her 60th, taken my mother-in-law and the dog’s a couple of times and pretty sure Joe has been with me too.

Other Hertfordshire Italians restaurants that are also worth raving about are Zaza in Bushey and Oscars in Kings Langley.

It’s really difficult to say who comes out as the best Italian restaurant in London, as the above are all amazing in there own way. I’d say the most affordable, best experience and seriously good quality pasta has to be Padella. Circolo Popolare and Carlotta have a great atmosphere, a bit more on the pricey side, however they make a delicious truffle pasta and amazing desserts. Per Tutti is my favourite local Italian. And lastly, Homeslice is hands down my favourite pizza place in London.

What’s your favourite Italian restaurant in London or locally?

Also, are you interested in hearing about some more London or Hertfordshire Guides or a series of other top 5 cuisines?

Before I dash, I do have a dedicated Instagram account for my food reviews, ‘@watfordfoodiefinds‘ if you fancy following us.