Other than a trip to Rome itself, you’ll struggle to find a truly luxurious Italian dining experience outside of London. Within the capital, there are all sorts of Italian cuisine options from rustic home recipes and antipasti to fine dining.
Perfect for both savoury lovers and those with a sweet tooth, Italian restaurants are ideal for family gatherings and first dates. Make your way around the city to explore rich flavours and stunning aesthetics, all prepared by the finest authentic Italian chefs.
From traditional trattorias to chic eateries, we’ve rounded up the best Italian fine dining London has to offer.
Locanda Locatelli
Husband and wife team Giorgio and Plaxy Locatelli opened Locanda Locatelli in 2002. As a staple of the city’s fine dining scene, the eatery naturally has a Michelin star. Here, you can dine on homemade pasta and gnocchi, furnished with seasonal ingredients including fresh mozzarella, parmesan, ricotta and truffles.
Locanda Locatelli is not only ideal for couples, but for families. Be sure to indulge the little ones in the restaurant’s famous desserts, or treat yourself to tiramisu and cannoli. Every dish is lovingly made to the high standards of head chef Giorgio. Hailing from Northern Italy, he began his days working in his uncle’s Michelin-starred restaurant – so perfection is second nature.
You’ll be welcomed by a warm and authentic Italian atmosphere in a spacious space. The restaurant underwent a £1 million renovation following a fire, and now boasts a private room as designed by David Collins.
Service is as important as taste in this Victoria-based Italian. Every member of staff is attentive and knowledgeable, focusing on quality and freshness. If you’re looking for high end Italian restaurants in London, Victoria is the place to be. You’ll find Locanda Locatelli on Seymour Street – a short way from our Victoria hotel.
Murano
Named after the Venetian island, Murano stays true to its Northern Italian roots with a stunning seasonal menu. Based in Mayfair, Murano was founded in 2008 by Angela Hartnett and Gordon Ramsay. In 2009, it gained a Michelin star and continues to boast this alongside four AA Rosettes. Hartnett is now the sole owner and brings a blend of homegrown Italian cooking with a fine dining flair.
You can choose from three or six-course menus, including vegetarian and vegan options, in an informal atmosphere. Though it’s based in Mayfair, Murano is very relaxed and encourages friendly social occasions.
Perhaps its finest feature is its produce, sourced from the best British and European suppliers. Every dish is inspired by age-old recipes from Hartnett’s family, and the wine list is just as well thought-out. Sip on the finest Italian wines safe in the knowledge that they have come from sustainable Italian sources.
Visit in winter for a cosy authentic Italian home feel, or enjoy the airy atmosphere in summer. There’s also a sister restaurant, Café Murano, which specialises in linguine and octopus. If you’re searching for fancy Italian restaurants in London without the fuss, choose Murano – close to our Charing Cross hotel.
Luca
Having gained a Michelin star in 2023, Luca is the most recent in our Italian fancy restaurants London list to earn such an accolade. However, high quality has always been the name of the game, and like so many others, the menu is inspired by family.
Based in Clerkenwell, Luca was founded by Executive Chef Rob Chambers. His recipes come from his aunt in Campania, and he blends traditional Italian cooking styles with experimental, modern techniques – resulting in mouth-watering pasta and seafood.
Luca prides itself on freshness, sourcing ingredients seasonally including Orkney scallops and Hereford beef. The restaurant is even famous for its condiments, including olive oil!
As you enter, you’ll be greeted by a warm and friendly atmosphere complete with vintage décor. Cosy up by the fireside terrace, immersing yourself in Campanian culture right in the heart of London. Luca is located between Farringdon and Barbican stations, so it’s easily accessible for tourists and professional diners alike.
The venue also hosts three private rooms, so you can elevate your dining experience with undivided attention from the staff. You’ll find it at 88 John St – reservations are required, so why not book our Charing Cross hotel at the same time?
The River Café
Fine dining Italian restaurants in London go beyond central – as shown by The River Café in Hammersmith. Located in West London, this charming eatery sits on the River Thames and has offered sensational cuisine since the 80s.
The River Café has held onto its Michelin star since 1997, having trained the likes of chefs such as Jamie Oliver and Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall. It remains an icon in the London Italian restaurant scene thanks to a menu that changes daily, making the most of seasonal produce.
There’s also an extensive wine list from all over Italy, including Sicily and Sardinia. Pair the best reds, whites and sparkling wines with The River Café’s famous dishes. In particular, the ravioli, tagliatelle al ragu and carpaccio de branzino remain fan favourites.
The restaurant offers indoor and outdoor seating, and is also home to two event spaces. Enjoy private dining for up to 18 guests, ideal for intimate celebrations. You’ll also find a separate café on-site, which is open all day and available for walk-ins only.
Heading further into London? Catch the District line for a direct route into all the famous attractions. Don’t forget to explore breakfast and lunch options at our Victoria restaurant bars.
Franco’s
Fine dining Italian London hotspots don’t come any more traditional than Franco’s. As one of the oldest Italian restaurants in London, Franco’s dates back to 1945. You can find it in London’s iconic Mayfair, on Jermyn Street close to Green Park.
Franco’s is open all day for truly authentic, formal Italian dining. Indulge in fresh pasta with linguine and lobster, delight your tastebuds with a creamy burrata, or try the mouth-watering honey-glazed duck and pan-fried venison.
There truly is something for everyone at Franco’s, including an extensive vegan and gluten-free menu. Start with homemade bread before graduating to hand-rolled pasta. Franco’s is as famous for its décor as it is for its food, featuring white tablecloths and red banquettes. Ideal for treating loved ones or attending corporate dinners, Franco’s is the epitome of luxury.
Pair your meal with an expansive wine list featuring bottles from all of Italy’s most famous regions. Sicilian, Tuscan and Amalfi wines are readily available, with waiting staff on hand to recommend the most complementary tastes.
Franco’s is a short distance from our Charing Cross hotel, featuring late night bars and restaurants for a nightcap afterwards. Top off your trip with a luxury hotel stay – bellissimo.
Extend your special night with a stay at The Clermont
When it comes to Italian fancy restaurants in London, you’re spoilt for choice. At The Clermont, we’ll spoil you even further – so book your stay today.
