One of the most famous names in London dining has bowed out after 70 years with the closure of all five Spaghetti House venues, after the family company behind the brand was placed in administration.
A Braccetto, an Earl’s Court trattoria opened two years ago by the second generation of the Lavarini family, has also ceased operation.
Simone Lavarini opened the first Spaghetti House on Goodge Street in 1955, and the group expanded at its height to 10 restaurants. Simone died at the age of 93 in 2023, and was followed into the business by his son Luigi.
The name entered London folklore with the so-called ‘Spaghetti House siege’ in 1975, when three armed robbers held the staff of the Knightsbridge branch hostage for six days, while police, reporters and TV crews encircled the building. The hostages were released unharmed and the robbers and two accomplices sent to prison.
Two years ago, when he opened A Braccetto, Luigi said, “Our family was part of the revolution that transformed London into becoming arguably the most exciting food city in the world. Back then, people simply fell in love with Italian food and culture – they still do today.”
After Lavval Restaurants Ltd was placed into administration this month, a spokesperson for the company said: “We’re sorry all our restaurants are now closed. We would like to express our deepest gratitude to our loyal customers, partners and team members, past and present, for your support over the years. From our family to yours, Grazie.”
Meanwhile, another much younger Italian restaurant has announced its imminent closure – Giulia in West London’s Askew Road, that in its five years has established a reputation for “an unusual level of excellence”, according to the 2026 Harden’s Guide.
Owners Giulia Quaglia and her partner, chef Endris Kerbisi, said they had made the decision to close their doors on 13 June “with a heavy heart”.
