If food be the language of love, then there's one nation that speaks it more fluently than the rest. Italy is a country of homely cooking, excellent wines and sweep-you-off-your-feet romance, and while we can't bring you the azure blue seas or stunning backdrop of the Colosseum, London's most romantic Italian restaurants are a charming bunch. From candlelit tables to cosy little corners, we've rounded up the best eateries in the city come date night - because that's amore.
Last updated on 3rd February 2023
Looking to impress the other half with a fancy restaurant? Head to Bardo St James's for a stunning evening of Italian fare. Munch on everything from homemade rosemary focaccia to lobster tagliatelle and clam spaghetti, alongside a bottle of wine with your sweetie
If you're after a romantic Italian restaurant in Covent Garden then you've come to the right place. Ideally located near West End theatreland and the iconic market, Opera Tavern welcomes you with tapas-style small plates for veggie and meat-eaters alike.
If you're on the hunt for a romantic spot for some Italian grub, Sartoria is a firm choice. Located on Savile Row, this Mayfair favourite is offering up a luxury dining experience to enjoy with your beau, alongside a carefully curated menu from chef patron Francesco Mazzei.
Want to really make your date swoon? Treat them to a night out at Bloomsbury Street Kitchen. Blending together a fusion of Japanese and Mediterranean influences, this romantic restaurant is sure to impress with its fresh seafood, signature tacos and grilled goods.
Whether it's Valentine's Day, an anniversary or a birthday celebration, Cattivo makes for a dreamy dining destination. Every Thursday, the venue hosts bottomless dinners if you fancy making date night a bit of a boozy one.
For an affordable romantic restaurant in London, Basil & Grape makes for a rustic-chic setting. Tuck into cheap Roman pizzas with your sweetheart while sipping on a glass of red and splitting a vanilla cheesecake for dessert. And if you fancy something lush, check out their wine tastings.
For date night Italian restaurants in London, head to Theo Randall at The InterContinental. Impress your other half with baked fontina cheese soufflés and yellowfin tuna tartare as you settle in their gorgeous leather banquet seating.
Named after the Tuscan region, Maremma brings some of that Italian spirit to Brixton in the form of freshly made pasta and stripped back interiors. The romantic spot isn't just easy on the eyes, the wine list features bottles not seen from the UK before, along with olive oil and meats sourced directly from Tuscany.
A complete dream of a restaurant, Martello Hall channels an abandoned, New Orleans mansion via faded turquoise interiors and velvet furnishings. It's only a short stroll from London Fields and has plenty of pizza, perfect for refuelling after scouring the area's plant shops.
One of the most beautiful Italian restaurants near Old Street, Serata Hall offers a uniquely romantic experience for couples in London. Head over for the chance to tuck into homemade pizzas and pasta plates, washed down with fine wines and delicious gin cocktails.
For those after a little romance with their Italian plates, head to La Fenice. Located on Stanhope Street in Fitzrovia, this stunning venue oozes class with its dimly-lit space and offers a mouthwatering selection of grub. Including the signature truffle and burrata tortellini. Yum.
If you're after romantic Italian restaurants in Covent Garden, Luciano by Gino D'Acampo is an excellent choice. Get stuck into a menu of delish eats from meaty pizzas and lobster linguine to steak tartare and calamari while sipping a cocktail or two.
Flaunting ambient lighting, plush blue seating and large island bar, Teatro Hall will certainly earn you a few brownie points. Everything is made fresh from 48-hour fermented pizza dough to homemade pasta - one of the best romantic restaurants in London? We think so.
From the chandeliers and rack-upon-rack of wine across the interior space, to the quaint terrace outside, Piccolino Heddon Street is one romantic destination when you want Italian food. Tuck into pizza, pasta and more across the menus that are bound to please you both. If you're in the City of London? Head to Exchange Square.
Mashing cool murals with Mediterranean tiles, Gotto Trattoria is a neighbourhood gem in the heart of Hackney. And it's not just the interiors, the space is fronted by the River Lea and come sunny days has alfresco seating; with handmade pasta this good, you could almost be in Italy.
Set on the second floor of The Barbican Centre, Osteria is a smart Italian restaurant. Nab a window seat for some killer views of St Giles Cripplegate church or if you're not feeling too hungry, the bar is marked by a neon 'Amore Bibo' sign, and is great for a negroni.
Looking for a romantic Italian restaurant in Central London? This cool and casual eatery just a stone's throw from Trafalgar Square offers a fun and budget-friendly spot for a date night. Tuck into fresh pasta, handmade pizzas and classic dishes at this St Martin's Lane dining destination.
One of the most romantic restaurants in London, this Italian gem is serving up delicious food and some serious date night vibes. Grab a table in or outside of Conchiglia and share a range of antipasti or a mouthwatering Roman-style pizza.
One of the best Italian restaurants in London, Casa Matilde promises the most delicious dishes in a swanky setting. Hit the bar for a cocktail or two followed by a decadent dinner - think Sicilian red prawns and roasted squid in breadcrumbs,
Romance is at the heart of Casacosta in West London. Set in the glamorous prohibition era, where the speakeasy bar was born, this spot oozes class with its range of simple Italian dishes from steak tartare to a creamy risotto.
Go Bottomless with unlimited Prosecco, Bellini or Mimosa! and 1 other offer
Il Pampero has romantic Italian restaurant written over it; from the luxurious interiors through to the menu of elevated authentic cuisine, the Belgravia restaurant is sure to add wow-factor to your date night. Expect nothing but the finest from this Belgravia spot.
Make your date swoon with a trip to Sycamore Vino Cucina. Found in Covent Garden, this stylish spot is sure to wow with its trendy interiors and furnishings. What's on the menu? Droolworthy pasta plates, mouthwatering meaty mains and perfectly prepared pizzas.
Craving an intimate atmosphere and delicious meal? Look no further than Piazza Italiana, located right in the City of London. At this romantic spot, you'll be able to enjoy traditional Italian cuisine, an extensive wine menu and scrumptious desserts.
Perfect for special occasions and date nights to impress, Margot is a romantic restaurant in Covent Garden. Expect Italian fare in the form of polenta, salumi and eclairs with apple and white chocolate cremaux.
Thought Circolo Popolare was just one for raucous group meals and brunch parties with friends? Think again. This lively Capri-inspired space makes for one slick date night, with gawp-worthy interiors, OTT dishes and cocktails made for sharing.
