Locatelli at the National Gallery

Having closed his flagship restaurant earlier this year, Georgio Locatelli’s latest venture brings his authentic Italian flavours to the mezzanine of the National Gallery’s freshly revamped Sainsbury Wing.

It’s a grand setting certainly, all timber floors, marble accents, and curved booths where diners are given a front row seat to Paula Rego’s ‘Crivelli’s Garden’, which sprawls along the back wall. But with a steady stream of museumgoers wandering past, and a gift shop greeting at the entrance (now selling copies of Locatelli’s own cookbooks), the mood leans more museum cafe than destination eatery.

Still, there’s charm to be found in the food. A succinct menu of seasonal offerings showcases that classic Italian simplicity, but with a touch of added artistry (we’re in a gallery after all). Burrata arrives atop a mix of crunchy spring veg, bright and balanced against the creamy cheese, though the promise of mint doesn't quite follow through. A cuttlefish salad is all subtlety: tagliatelle-like ribbons of the fish are twirled into a nest on a creamy, pea puree. It’s light, and refreshing, though a good citrussy kick wouldn’t go amiss.

Thick, handmade pasta parcels are stuffed with peas and shallots, a gently sweet filling that brings a summery touch, though the lashings of shaved black truffle feel more decorative than punchy. More robust is the pot-roast chicken, with glorious crispy skin and perfectly cooked meat that’s practically falling off the bone. It arrives swimming in a glossy, rich gravy that leans into its bitterness, brought to life by briny Taggiasche olives. A side of rosemary roast potatoes is herby and oil-drenched, though they’re little more than luxe potato wedges.

The drinks list keeps things proudly Italian, with spritzes and Sicilian lemonades alongside a well-curated wine list that champions regional producers. Dessert ends the meal on a high, although it’s hard to go wrong with a lemon tart, its sharp filling perfectly contrasting the buttery, shortbread base.

With welcoming staff, seasonal menus, and a relaxed environment, there’s plenty to love about Locatelli at the National Gallery, though it feels more like a stylish interlude between exhibitions than a culinary destination.

World famous Italian chef Giorgio Locatelli has opened the eponymous Locatelli at the National Gallery. The restaurant has taken over the mezzanine level of the newly-refurbished Sainsbury Wing, making it one of the most picturesque venues in London.

The opening of Locatelli’s follows the closure of Giorgio’s Michelin-starred Locanda Locatelli in December 2024. Run in partnership with Searcys, the UK’s oldest catering company, Locatelli is situated amongst some of the most iconic and prestigious areas of London and boasts views of Trafalgar Square. The eighty-seater space takes inspiration from its surroundings, using natural light and materials to create an elegant, banquette-style restaurant.

Below on the ground floor, there is also Bar Giorgio which offers a more casual, pitstop experience for those after a morning espresso or afternoon sweet. It will serve barista-made coffee and maritozzo buns, in both savoury and sweet varieties. Guests are encouraged to stand and chat to the barista, or perch for a moment of peace before the day begins.

Designed to cater to leisurely lunches as well as refined evening meals, Locatelli serves Italian classics, including antipasti, and of course, Giorgio’s signature seasonal dishes. Smaller plates include braised veal ravioli with parsley gremolata and parmigiano reggiano sauce while larger plates offer roast chicken alla cacciatora as well as roast ribeye steak. For dessert, there’s also an impressive tiramisu. In keeping with Giorgio’s style, dishes are made with precision and passion, combined with the heart-warming flavours of Italy.

The drinks menu is strictly Italian fine wines, including blends from Broglia, the oldest vineyard in Gavi. Given its location, Locatelli offers something special but Giorgio is also keen for it to be somewhere people can come for a glass of wine and a great bowl of pasta that doesn’t cost more than £20.