We all know it’s been the year/s of Italian in London – neighbourhood, bling, Americana, regional – but nowhere does sceney Italian quite like Carbone.
The Décor/Vibe
By day, sit outside under the olive trees or the umbrellas with sophisticated piped nautical-esque seating, or go inside for a buzzy, polished trattoria vibe.
By night, waft down the stairs and enter their more theatrical world, with a sweeping bar, leopard print banquettes, crisp white tablecloths and a layout that demands you notice who walks in. Staff move briskly, and their white tailored jackets mean business.
The Menu
Yes, it’s not inexpensive, but every single dish that we tried here was executed exquisitely. A chopped salad, with radicchio that felt like it had been massaged for days. A pasta puttanesca that was like no other – was it butter? Or oil? What kept it together so perfectly? – with anchovies that weren’t overpowering.
To drink: spritzes. There are many of them. And of course, there’s a sizeable wine list, with a great sommelier to guide you through.
Highlights
The world they’ve created here. Upbeat and professional by day, slick and atmospheric by night.
