Best italian restaurants in London
We've picked 2 places in this category in London. These are Italian or Italian-style spots that our community goes back to again and again.
How we choose these places: steady recent reviews, Italian-style menus and service that makes people want to come back. Opening hours and menus can change – always double-check their website or socials before you go.
#1View full listingPadella (Borough Market)
Fresh, hand-rolled pasta & a few perfect sauces — the London queue classic.
Editor’s pickHand-checked
#2View full listingBocca di Lupo (Soho)
Seasonal regional Italian small & large plates; a Soho institution.
Community favouriteHand-checked
Italian restaurants in London
London's Italian restaurant scene is vast, but our directory focuses on places that genuinely stand out for quality, authenticity and character. Padella at Borough Market has redefined what affordable fresh pasta can be — queues form daily for its hand-rolled pasta and perfect sauces. Bocca di Lupo in Soho offers a deeper exploration of Italian regional cooking that's earned it a permanent place among London's best restaurants.
Practical tips
- Padella is next to Borough Market — explore the market while you wait for a table.
- Bocca di Lupo in Soho requires booking — reserve as far ahead as possible for dinner.
- Both are within easy reach of major Tube stations.
Frequently asked questions
- What is the best Italian restaurant in London?
- For fresh pasta at outstanding value, Padella at Borough Market is hard to beat. For a deeper exploration of Italian regional cooking, Bocca di Lupo in Soho is exceptional. Both are among the most highly regarded Italian restaurants in the city.
- Do I need to queue at Padella?
- Yes — Padella is walk-in only and queues are common, especially at weekends. For the shortest wait, arrive mid-afternoon (after 2:30pm) or early evening (before 6pm) midweek.
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The London directory helps Italians find Italian-run businesses in their area. We only highlight a limited number of places per category so people genuinely looking for Italian spots can find you.