Classic Italian Pizza from Sartori in London
#The Lowdown

London's Best Affordable Italian Restaurants

By Travel Savvy

London Italian Restaurants

London is one of the most popular cities in the world, which means you can find savory cuisine from all over the world within the city limits. Self-proclaimed foodie Paolo Pironi knows exactly what to look for in terms of Italian food in his adopted city of London.

Paolo was born and raised in Ravenna, Italy, the home of lasagna and bolognese. As an adult, he's traveled extensively all over the globe, always sampling Italian cuisine everywhere he's gone. His unofficial food research has made him an expert at how to find the value and taste in every city. Now that he lives in London full-time, we tapped him to give us the low-down on where to 'mangia' without busting the travel budget.

“London is full of very expensive, Michelin-starred Italian restaurants where food is amazing," says Paolo. "You can't always go to a 'break-the-bank' place every night. I've put together a list of places that offer a good balance between amazing food and value.”

 

Sardo Pizza being sliced 1

Photo Credit: Sardo | Facebook

Sardo

45 Grafton Way
(027) 387-2521
www.Sardo-Restaurant.com
Monday-Friday 12PM- 3PM, 6PM-11PM; Saturday 6PM-11PM

Sardo is an authentic restaurant in London’s West End area. This cozy italian restaurant offers flavorful Sardinian cuisine and is known for their wide selection of fresh, homemade bread. In the mood for something more casual? Head over to their sister restaurant nexdoor, the Sardo Cucina, for takeaway dishes, small plates, and casual fare. 

Interior of Cicchetti Restaurant 2

Photo Credit: San Carlo Cicchetti

Cicchetti

215 Piccadilly St.
(207)494-9435
8AM-11:30PM

30 Wellington St
(207) 494-9435
8AM-12AM
www.SanCarloCicchetti.co.uk

Cicchetti specializes in the cuisine of the Veneto. Every dish is served in smaller portions, allowing guests to choose among all the offerings to fully enjoy a variety of flavors. Make sure to save room for dessert and order the Tiramisu made with pistachio sponge cake.

Demartino restaurant 3

Photo Credit: Demartino

Demartino

196/198 Great Portland St.
(207) 436-2547
www.Demartino.co.uk
Monday-Saturday 12PM-10:30PM

Demartino offers traditional Italian fare at an affordable rate. Choosing from all that they offer might be difficult, but a great option is the Spaghetti alla Carbonara--spaghetti with fresh cream, pancetta (Italian bacon) and parmesan. Or, keep it simple and choose a charcoal-grilled steak or fire-roasted whole fish.

Sartori Restaurant Interior 4

Photo Credit: Sartori

Sartori

15-18 Great Newport Street
(207) 836-6308
www.Sartori-Restaurant.com
Monday-Sunday 12PM-11PM

Sartori has a prime location in the midst of London's upbeat West End near Leicester Square and Covent Garden underground stations. It is a perfect place to dine before heading to the theatre or spending a night out in London. Make sure to check out their extensive wine list!

Seafood dish  at San Gennaro 5

Photo Credit: San Gennaro

San Gennaro

22 Battersea Park Rd.
(207) 622-0475
www.SanGennaro.co.uk
Monday-Thursday & Sunday 5PM-10:30 PM; Friday-Saturday 5PM-11:30PM

San Gennaro is a family run restaurant with a warm ambiance and great service. Between the cheerful and attentive staff and the fresh Southern Italian dishes, you can expect a great dining experience. The restaurant is known for their excellent pizza and exceptional appetizers. Try the Deep Fried Calamari Rings made with fennel and chili crust!

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