Our Review Of Locatelli At The National Gallery: Skilful Italian Cooking Down To A Fine Art

Us Londoners are pretty lucky. Not only are we blessed with cultural institutions that are famous the world over, but innovative chefs also consider the capital as their culinary playground. But what if I told you that there’s a new restaurant that brings both together? Meet Locatelli at The National Gallery, just by Trafalgar Square.

Our Locatelli at The National Gallery photos don't really do our experience justice - the tiramisu is worth a visit alone.

DesignMyNight's Review Of Locatelli At The National Gallery London

Having opened in May 2025, Locatelli is Michelin star chef Giorgio Locatelli’s latest venture after closing down his Marylebone restaurant last year, and sees him team up with hospitality superstars Searcys. I brought along my art-loving friend, who incidentally has an Italian husband, so was well informed about the star's hosting appearances on MasterChef Italia and Celebrity Cooking School here in the UK.

Located at The National Gallery, opposite Trafalgar Square, Locatelli’s location doesn’t need much explaining, as it’s quite familiar to say the least. Tucked inside the Sainsbury Wing, you can actually find a direct route from within the museum itself, acting almost like a VIP entrance. If you’re coming from outside, like me, you just need to head up one flight of stairs to the mezzanine level, past a quaint mini bookshop. But let’s be real, this is not your standard museum cafe. Towards the front, there’s a 10-metre mural of Crivelli’s Garden, while to the far left is an amber-coloured bar space ideal for people watching (there’s a great view of the outdoor Christmas market as well).

Locatelli are master craftsman of pasta, just check out those moreish pumpkin parcels.

The restaurant itself was a romantic, dreamy hidden gem, boasting lovely curved furniture, patterned glass panels, marble-topped tables, warm lighting and a neutral colour palette throughout, plus a charming tree centerpiece. I felt very relaxed here, but could sense by the overall atmosphere that this was a sophisticated dining experience too.

In terms of the Locatelli National Gallery menu, expect elevated Italian classics made with love. We pretty much followed our incredible host Matthew’s recommendations to the letter, starting with potato and rosemary sourdough (£6.50). We heard the fascinating inspiration behind this nibble, giving us insight into its humble beginnings. Made with 20% burnt wheat, giving real depth of flavour, the warm loaf benefitted from a crisp crust, fluffy, herby middle and a side of extra virgin olive oil for dipping. I know what you’re thinking, but this is just bread. But trust us, you need to pick it when you visit - as it's one of their best-sellers.

Our starter of beetroot salad (£15.50) was also delicious, bringing together silky ricotta, zesty orange, walnuts, honey and the unmistakable tang of mustard. It was light but also really filling, plus we loved all the different textures at play here. 

From the sourdough starter to the stylish interiors, Locatelli is a winner in our book.  

Our host suggested the ChiChiBio pecorino (£35) wine matched the best with our dishes, and I could see why. Floral but fruity, this fresh little number went down a treat. Next up, our mains arrived – and because we couldn’t choose, we decided to share. The pumpkin tortelloni (£19.50) was probably our favourite dish of the night. These plump, firm, perfectly seasoned pockets were stuffed with an earthy, rich filling, dusted with parmesan cheese and amaretto crumble on top (the latter of which was quite frankly a genius move).

Meanwhile, chestnut tagliatelle (£23.50), dotted in shards of chive with a generous amount of mixed mushrooms, proved to be a great choice. Just imagine ribbons coated in a gorgeous buttery, garlic sauce that was punchy and well-executed. Big shout out to the small but tasty polenta (£5.50). Served in a river of cheesy parmesan fondue, this stunning side was bouncy and had a delightful charr on the outside.

After checking out the Locatelli National Gallery reviews and to close our evening, we thought you couldn’t go wrong with a classic tiramisu (£9.50). This one didn’t disappoint. Prepare for very pronounced slightly sweet and coffee-soaked layers, alongside a velvety smooth cream, with a generous dusting of chocolate on top. We noted the intricate presentation here, you could say it was a work of art.

Locatelli At The National Gallery London Review: Overall

Hidden in plain sight, Locatelli at The National Gallery really is a great addition to the restaurant scene. We feel it actually reflects the best of London; from the iconic surrounds and friendly atmosphere to heartwarming food that feeds the soul. My date, having spent a lot of time in Italy, remarked about how authentic these dishes tasted too, so for dinners in quite a remarkable setting? You know where to look.    

For more eats that are just picture-perfect? Check out London's prettiest restaurants.