Osteria by Bocconcino

Osteria by Bocconcino draws inspiration from Italian osterias, but in truth, it’s a much more sophisticated experience - one that befits the West End location. Planted firmly in theatreland (the Lyceum is barely a minute away), it does brisk trade with pre- and post-show diners, serving a crowd-pleasing menu of familiar Italian comfort dishes that even the pickiest eaters will happily get behind.

Inside, things feel suitably grand, which makes sense given neighbours like The Savoy and Somerset House. A monochrome chequerboard floor leads past barrel-back chairs, rattan lampshades and trailing greenery, while floor-to-ceiling windows flood the corner site with light. At the back, an open kitchen adds theatre of its own, with pasta rolled to order and sea bass grilled over open flames.

The menu sticks close to the classics, occasionally dialled up with a touch of luxury. Salmon tartare is left satisfyingly chunky and paired with avocado and good olive oil, while the carbonara - no easy feat - is confidently done, with fresh pasta coated in a silky, well-emulsified sauce and generous hits of guanciale.

In fact, wherever you turn, Osteria by Bocconcino is a well-oiled machine. Staff are warm and efficient; wines by the glass start at £8.50; and it’s a thoroughly pleasant place to spend a few hours, flexible enough to handle casual or celebratory occasions.

The final salvo is a Ferrero-style chocolate tart - a rich combo of chocolate, hazelnut praline and cream. Like everything else here, it delivers exactly what it promises - no more, no less. Osteria by Bocconcino isn’t reinventing the wheel, but it delivers very solid, dependable, classic Italian cooking, at prices that feel refreshingly fair for this part of town.

Located on the Strand in Covent Garden, Osteria by Bocconcino is the latest addition to the Bocconcino family, joining its celebrated Mayfair and Soho restaurants. This new concept draws inspiration from the Italian osteria, offering a relaxed, welcoming place for good food, wine, and long evenings of easy-flowing conversation.

Interiors bring the warmth and texture of the Mediterranean, designed with natural wood, stone, and terracotta tones. It’s relaxed, yet refined, making the restaurant ideal for theatre-goers, business lunches, romantic dinners, or weekend brunches with friends. Watch chefs in the open kitchen transform fresh ingredients into Mediterranean masterpieces - the open kitchen grill buzzes with energy, enhancing flavours and adding theatre to the dining room.

Sourcing is central to the Osteria ethos: seafood is chosen for sustainability and quality, meats from trusted British farms, and produce at its seasonal peak. Start with antipasti like burrata with baby plum tomatoes, scallops with pumpkin cream, or beef tartare with potato millefeuille and cheese fondue. Handmade pasta and risotto are the heart of the offering, from tagliatelle with beef ragu to ossobuco risotto with saffron. For mains, diners can choose from flame-grilled meats and fish - whole butterfly sea bass with salsa verde, tuna, baby chicken, or prime cuts of beef.

Saturdays are all about the Bottomless Lobster Brunch, with seafood platters, lobster mains and free-flowing drinks set to live DJ sets. On Sundays, the mood shifts to a more leisurely pace with an Italian Riviera-inspired seafood buffet featuring a live singer. To complement the food, an Italian-led wine list covers crisp whites, robust reds, sparkling Franciacorta, and distinctive orange wines from small producers. A cocktail list inspired by Italian classics offers spritzes, negronis, and modern twists.

Whether you’re planning a pre-theatre supper, a celebratory dinner, or a corporate event, Osteria by Bocconcino promises exceptional Italian food and hospitality in the heart of central London.