Launched by two young chefs – Wilfred Mafham (Trinity, Bistro Union) and Luca Cianti (Pastaficio, Restaurant Ours) – Pasta Nostra is the product of a succession of popular masterclasses at Tooting Broadway Market. From fettucine to pappardelle, orecchiette, spaghetti and any other shape you can think of, these guys really know their pasta, as you’ll witness for yourself thanks to the fully exposed kitchen at their new restaurant.
There are but two sentences on Pasta Nostra’s website. The first states simply what and where it is: a fresh pasta restaurant and bar, two minutes from Old Street tube station; the second, its mission: to make the best pasta in town. No fluff, no spiel, just simplicity and honesty – qualities which sum up perfectly this small but vibrant eatery’s approach to its cooking.
Pasta Nostra’s menu is short, sweet and easy to share. Small plates take the form of Italian classics such as arancini alla Romana (rice balls in three flavours), cime di rapa (croquettes), and aubergine Parmigiana. Other plates include burrata, a selection of Italian meats, and the unmissable house focaccia, which is baked fresh in-house every day.
When it comes to the main event, you could go for something familiar (though definitely not boring), such as pappardelle oxtail ragu, which is slow-cooked for eight hours, or try one of the restaurant’s unique creations like the tortello carbonara, filled with pecorino, crispy cured pork cheek and zabaglione (usually a dessert).
Vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free diners are all catered for, as are those without time to stop, thanks to the good-value takeaway menu which includes a portion of homemade pasta (choose from its four staples), house focaccia and mixed leaf salad, all for £10.
Be sure to save room for one or both of the two classic desserts: Sicilian cannolo with sweetened sheep’s ricotta, and chocolatey tiramisu, to go with your proper Italian coffee.