Sale e Pepe

There’s an air of quiet assurance about Sale e Pepe – well, it has been feeding Londoners for more than three decades. The cosy dining room has bare-brick or cream walls brightened by knick-knacks & pictures of the homeland. Manager Tony Corricelli has been meeting & greeting guests since the restaurant opened, & many of his waiters have been here for almost as long. The chef, however, is a new boy with less than 10 years at the stoves, though he delivers food that is right on the button when it comes to comfort & quality. His renditions of seafood salad, pasta e fagioli & veal escalopes with a creamy mushroom & brandy sauce are done ‘to perfection’ & served with great charm. Ever-welcoming staff are keen to advise on the relatively affordable Italian wine list, whether you fancy a £17 Soave or a three-figure vintage Sassicaia.