A Thursday night in the City usually means one thing: after-work drinks. But on this particular occasion I had decided to forego standing on a pavement with an overpriced pint and instead I found myself heading to Piazza Italiana, a fancy Italian restaurant that sits within a Grade II-listed landmark - the former British Linen Bank on Threadneedle Street. This building has continued to make history since it was taken over by renowned Sicilian chef Remo Mazzucato and his team in 2021, having earned two AA Rosettes in that time. And as it just so happens to be a stone's throw from my office, it would have been rude not to check it out.
Piazza Italiana retains many of its original bank features.
DesignMyNight’s Review Of Piazza Italiana London
This grand venue is often used for events, and we marvelled at the gorgeous mezzanine and private dining area as we entered. But it was the main room that we were seated in, bustling with businesspeople, and the decor certainly wasn't lacking here either. The original 1902 interiors have been restored, featuring high ceilings adorned with intricate carvings, alongside ornate pillars and huge arched windows. And it was clear from the start that the level of service matched the decadence of the restaurant - the staff were knowledgeable and attentive, even going as far as to prepare certain pastas tableside in a wheel of cheese.
For drinks, I chose a Beauty's Favourite (£15), a punchy tequila-based cocktail that combined elderflower liqueur with fresh lemon juice and grapefruit soda - resulting in a bubbly pink concoction that was fruity and refreshing. For something more tropical, the Mamma Mia! (£15) was equally satisfying, combining spiced rum with lychee, pineapple and creamy coconut, with a zesty citrus finish.
Sip fruity cocktails with your meal at this City hotspot.
We ordered a bread basket (£2 per person) to begin with, though 'basket' wasn't really an accurate description as it arrived on an elevated wooden board that contained a mixture of ciabatta, breadsticks and a thin cracker-type flatbread. To go with these, there was a herby tomato dip with a thin soup-like consistency, alongside a salty olive tapenade and a whipped garlic butter that was hugely moreish and by far both of our favourite accompaniment. The test tube-style containers of olive oil and balsamic vinegar were also a nice touch.
Our other starter, the arancini al tartufo (£14), were gorgeous balls of truffle risotto, loaded with stretchy mozzarella cheese and packed full of flavour. These came in an earthy wild mushroom sauce, topped with delicate shavings of parmesan - exactly what you want to begin an Italian meal.
We stuck with the classics for our main course, the first being a tomato and Stracciatella conchiglie (£19). This was a great example of a simple dish done well, from the rich, garlic-heavy tomato sauce to the perfectly al dente pasta, finished with a generous helping of creamy cheese, sun-dried tomatoes and basil. Similarly delicious, the chicken Milanese (£28) was beautifully crispy with a tender, succulent centre, served with a side salad of rocket, parmesan and cherry tomatoes. We also ordered some triple cooked chips (£9) to go with this, which were fluffy on the inside and coated with both truffle oil and parmesan on the outside.
The Piazza Italiana menu is full of classic dishes done well.
When you think of Italian desserts, the two that come to mind are probably tiramisu and gelato, and we ordered both of those. Their classic tiramisu (£10) is scooped out of the tray at your table, and the waiter gave us an absolutely huge portion. The sweet cream and mild coffee flavour were balanced well, and we couldn't get enough. Lastly, we nibbled both pistachio and chocolate ice cream (£3 per scoop), finishing the meal in true Mediterranean fashion.
Overall: Piazza Italiana
Piazza Italiana's reviews are overwhelmingly positive, and I can now see why. Not only is the building absolutely stunning, the food is fantastic and the staff couldn't be kinder - providing high-end service without being overbearing. This spot is ideal for date night, though there were plenty of after-work meals going on too, and I'd particularly recommend trying the tiramisu if you've got room at the end of your feast.
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💰 Price: around £120 for two, excluding service charge. 📍 Address: 38 Threadneedle Street, EC2R 8AY. 👌 Perfect for: a romantic meal in the City. ⭐ Need to know: Their intimate private dining room is also great for celebrations. |
Book your spot at Piazza Italiana for a mouthwatering meal of your own.
