London, Italian Restaurant Guide

“There’s no messing around by chefs trying to be clever: just first class ingredients allowed to speak for themselves” alongside a “fabulous wine list” and “so-gracious” service at Sally Clarke’s California-inspired institution – a Kensington stalwart that “isn’t content to rest on its laurels”, and whose “fresh-flavoured dishes” are “some of the best seasonal food in London”. “The main room’s elegant decor makes it feel more like a private dining room than a restaurant and the tables are set far enough apart to allow for quiet conversation” making it a favourite for romance (of the silver-haired variety). “A warm welcome from Sally each and every visit sets the tone for a great evening” (“she must have some clones of herself, as she always seems to be around!”).

“Simultaneously up-to-date and old-school” – one of London’s oldest Italians (dating from 1946) makes an ideal business lunch spot in St James’s, with a busy, bustling atmosphere that’s formal but “not too serious”, and with “excellent cooking and friendly service”. Perhaps unsurprisingly, it is also rather “expensive”. Top Tip: “breakfast is always good here… especially if someone else is paying!”.

The home of some of “the best Italian food going” is how fans recommend this ex-River Café head chef’s luxurious dining room, just off a hotel foyer by Hyde Park Corner, which also benefits from an “enormous and interesting wine list” (although the latter “can bring tears to your wallet”). The space lacks natural light, but the revamp a couple of years ago has made it more “charming”.

“You get what it says on the tin” according to fans of this classic trattoria of many years’ standing near Harrods (nowadays part of the glossy San Carlo group), who acclaim its “great atmosphere” and for whom it’s often a long-term favourite. Alongside strong praise, a couple of off-reports dragged down ratings this year – hopefully just a blip.

“A truly Italian venue in central London” – this “old-fashioned” Umbrian stalwart of half a century’s standing has a “wonderfully understated” style, and delights its regulars with its “delicious cooking” (“superb pasta”) and very characterful service. Fun fact – Gordon Brown had his engagement party here.

“A great local stalwart that never seems to change” – this “traditional and welcoming” trattoria near Sloane Square particularly benefits from “wonderful” long-serving staff, who provide “the best welcome of any restaurant in London” to regular patrons (including junior members of the party). The fairly old-fashioned cooking is “consistent”, if not especially ‘foodie’.