Haute Top 5: Best Italian Restaurants in London 2017

The affluent area of Chelsea is infamous for its association with all things luxurious and elegant. This includes the food scene. With many fine establishments to choose from, Daphne’s comes out on top as a long-standing institution of the neighborhood. Seasonal dishes stay true to fresh Italian cuisine, with a traditional menu that understands simplicity. Time has not faded the allure of the decor, where everything from the chairs to the paint colours have been chosen with Italy in mind. The restaurant, bar and bright conservatory invite clientele to partake in the lazy lunches and prolonged dinners which our Latin cousins are famous for. The conservatory can be hired for private events, and with its alfresco feel in the summer, and blazing fire in winter, it is an irresistible venue option.

Scalini has been a shining presence on the London food scene since 1988. The menu is dominated by Italian favourites and classics, such as bistecca alla fiorentina (a florentine chargrilled t-bone steak). The costoletta di vitello Scalini, a veal chop stuffed with ham and mushrooms and topped with cheese & truffle butter, had us drooling, despite it not being strictly traditional. All their produce is sourced from authentic Italian farmers and suppliers based in various regions of Italy.

Fucina is new to the scene and absolutely killing it! The interior is something to behold, having been designed to make the diner feel as though they are eating inside a wood burning pizza oven. Founder Kurt Zdesar & Chef Stefano Stecca have scoured the length and breadth of Italy & the UK to source the very best organic produce to create innovative yet wholesome dishes. We adored their handmade pizza, rolled just before serving, for the freshest texture and flavour. The large marble bar serves classic Italian cocktails and aperitivos at one end, with a cichetti bar (an italian version of bar snacks or tapas) at the other. You’ll also see the chefs adding the final touches to dishes, for you to devour!

Most people envision Italy as a romantic gondola ride, being serenaded by the gently crooning gondolier. While we can’t transport you overseas, London does bring you the timeless C London, offering classic Italian dishes from Harry’s Bar in Venice. Located in the heart of Mayfair, a few steps away from the most exclusive shopping, C London is the perfect place to stop for an afternoon bite and a little respite. The elegant white-jacketed waiters offer iconic service to an eclectic crowd of Londoners and a very international clientele.

Located in the heart of glamorous Mayfair, Novikov Italian is where the elite come to eat. The decor is a celebration of all things rustic. You can't miss the imposing wood-fired oven, suede wall paneling and scattered pots of fresh produce, making you feel as though you’ve entered the world’s fanciest farmer’s market. The menu veers away from pizza and pasta offerings, focusing instead on fresh fish, shellfish and prime cuts of meat. The Lounge Bar is a must visit après dinner, featuring a talented lineup of musical entertainment and performances from world class DJs. So beloved by the rich and famous, Novikov Italian also offers a private jet takeaway menu for those with a plane, a strict timetable and a lobster craving.