Romantic Italian Restaurants in London

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 al fresco seating; with handmade pasta this good, you could almost be in Italy.

From the hand-painted floors to the wrought iron staircase (Romeo and Juliet vibes, no?), Bocconcino has got 'special occasion' written all over it. The Mayfair restaurant is a fancy affair, and along with boasting an olive tree at its centre, has a menu of classics; expect risotto, pizzas and insalate.

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.

Set in Marylebone, Caffè Cinquanta is full of kitsch and cute details, with old movie posters, huge trees, and daily specials written up on a chalkboard. Pasta is made fresh every day - just like nonna's - and there's an affordable Italian wine list to wash it all down with.

Head over to Union Street where this gorgeous restaurant offers the ultimate date night spot. With sleek and sexy interiors, delicious seasonal dishes and sumptuous cocktails to choose from, it'll certainly get sparks flying between you and the other half.

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.

Having been in the business for 25 years, Made In Italy has seen more than a few love struck couples through its doors. Exposed brick walls, candle light and charming service are to thank for the romantic vibes - and plates such as aubergine parmigiana had us head over heels.

Ready to be swept of your feet? If your date isn't doing it, you can rest assured that Palatino will with plates that will have you whispering sweet nothings. Snuggle into one of the yellow booths in the warehouse-style building and tuck into dishes such as fried sage with courgette and honey vinegar, or spaghetti with clams.

This Chelsea stalwart combines a modern Italian menu with goat decor. While that may sound a little strange, it works. Along with animal statues, there's rickety wooden tables, plenty of candlelight and a sophisticated crowd on weekdays. When you're done munching on pizza, check out the secret cocktail bar upstairs.

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.

With three restaurants across London, Radio Alice is making date night all the more delicious with their unique pizzas. Their ethos to the classic is simple: sour dough bases, only topped with extras once it's cooled, allowing you to fully appreciate the flavour.

Looking for a little romance? Ditch the same old date night spot and head east where Shoreditch's Passo promises an intimate atmosphere where freshly cooked pasta, seasonal dishes and natural wines take centre stage.

Set in Spitalfields, Bottles is an intimate wine bar with a big wooden counter top, perfect for that Italian sense of community. Sood are in the downstairs kitchen and cook classic and homely plates, including the likes of spaghetti all'amatriciana and pecorino rice balls.