Italian restaurants in London: things to know before you go

So you’ve settled on Italian for dinner. What next? We’re here to make the rest of the decision making that bit easier with answers to all your questions about Italian restaurants in London. Prego.

Where can I eat authentic Italian food in London?

The short answer is: everywhere. Italians first started settling in the 19th century – bringing their world-renowned delicious cuisine with them. The first Italian restaurants in London were in Soho and Clerkenwell, but today you can experience fine Italian dining across the city. A few of the best-reviewed places show the range of top Italian restaurants in London, including in:

• Lambeth. Lotus Bar serves some outstanding small plates. On the menu is everything from simpler comforts such as continental cheeses and cured meats to pasta, seafood and sliders with a modern twist.
• Soho. Rustiko serves its dishes in a candlelit cosy atmosphere. Park yourself at the bar to watch celebrities breezing in and out and sample from the impressive Italian wine list.
• Seven Sisters. For a more homely vibe, go to Girasole Taste of Italy and dip into its mini tramezzini and cannoli. The sweet treats are all handmade on site every morning – choose from mouthwatering Nutella croissants, pan aux raisin and tasty savoury options.

What is the tastiest Italian dish?

This is about the toughest question you could ask a food lover. That said, ask an Italian and there’s a good chance you’ll get an impassioned response encouraging you to try the dish their region is most famous for. Here’s a soft answer to cover off on perhaps the two most popular dishes: pizza and pasta.

• Neapolitan Margherita is considered by many pizza connoisseurs to be the one true pizza. Any topping beyond tomato sauce, mozzarella and basil leaves is just something for a pizza to hide behind.
• Aubergine Parmigiana is a vegetarian pasta dish that doesn’t mess around. One of the most popular dishes in Sicily, it’s a moreish mix of layers of pasta, aubergines and tomatoes - beautifully indulgent.

Of course, food is just one part of the Italian dining experience – it’s all about fine wine, too. Learn more about pairings in this guide.

Are there many cheap Italian restaurants in London?

There are tons of affordable and relatively cheap good Italian restaurants in London, and Groupon always has the best Italian restaurant vouchers. Restaurants pushing five stars such as R&M Italiano and Marco’s Italian have reasonable prices to start with. Throw a great deal into the mix and you’re laughing. Browse more excellent offers at Groupon.

Are there any Michelin-starred Italian restaurants in London?

With such a huge range of Italian restaurants in central London and beyond, you’ll find a fair few prime spots which have earned coveted Michelin stars. However, Michelin stars are only one way of measuring the quality of Italian restaurants. Swipe through the highly rated options above and you’ll find a whole host of authentic gems near you.