Whether heading over to London for a city break, visiting family and friends or just passing though, these two luxurious dining experiences are a must-try for International travellers and foodies alike. Cicchetti Knightsbridge and Isola by San Carlo are both situated near prominent shopping destinations – Cicchetti Knightsbridge, opposite Harrod’s, offers elevated Italian dining with a touch of Venetian bácaro culture. Isola on the other hand, brings the charm of Sicilian Grand Café culture to London. Both venues offer vibrant sharing plates and exquisite drinks in sophisticated settings.
THE CICCHETTI EXPERIENCE
The menu from Cicchetti’s Executive Chef, Andrea Parente, bursts with freshly prepared regionally inspired plates using ingredients sourced from Italy’s best artisan producers. In keeping with the restaurant’s name, many of the dishes are designed for sharing and feature all the Cicchetti classics (from the Piccadilly, Covent Garden and Manchester restaurants) alongside seasonal specials and brand-new dishes unique to Knightsbridge.
Diners can start with an aperitivo such as a Bellini Veneziana with white peach juice and exclusively sourced prosecco alongside perfect-for-picking crostini and stuzzichini, including Prosciutto San Daniele with gnocco fritto and burrata with Parma ham and black truffle. Then delving into the main menu, which will feature seasonally inspired choices and Cicchetti classic signature dishes including the ever popular and decadent black truffle ravioli; burrata with smoked aubergine and toasted hazelnuts; and black salt sea bass with herb and olive oil salmoriglio.
As for the interior, blending the contemporary with the classic, expect luxurious materials such as polished marble, burnished brass and bespoke art deco mirrored ceilings. Polished wood and brass fittings nod to the luxury yachts synonymous with the Floating City, whilst a large striking mural – painted in situ by LA based artist, Jessalyn Brooks – takes centre stage in the main dining.
THE ISOLA BY SAN CARLO EXPERIENCE
Inspired by the Distefano family’s native Sicily and their summers spent on the islands, Isola’s menu is a breath of fresh air filled with sunny plates that bring bright and bold flavours to the fore.
Offering a modern take on the comforting classics, guests can expect a taste of the coast with a fresh, vibrant menu of seasonal plates, by Executive Chef Andrea Parente.
The menu opens with a generous selection of stuzzichini – delicious snacks deserving of attention over a cocktail – with choice morsels including Arancini, Roasted Pepper marinated in olive oil and garlic and Sicilian Semolina Bread topped with Provola cheese and tomato basil sauce or filled with aubergine. Antipasti follows – expect Figliata al Tartufo – traditional creamy mozzarella encasing bite-size bocconcini, dressed in truffle oil – and Carpaccio di Spigola, the freshest carpaccio of sea bass with fennel chiffonade.
Conveniently located in the heart of the West End, the downstairs area at Isola by San Carlo provides an elegant and atmospheric space for private events, suitable for 60 seated guests including the bar area. With pastel yellow walls, green marble floors and booth seating throughout, the space provides the perfect setting for every occasion from birthday celebrations to formal business dinners, and extravagant Christmas drinks parties.
Whether diners are looking to experience a new culinary adventure or a place to relax and refresh after a long day of shopping – the two luxurious restaurants, Cicchetti Knightsbridge and Isola by San Carlo offer an elevated dining experience fit for all guests and occasions.
