Fitzroy Wine Cellar & Kitchen

Fitzroy's Authentic Italian Gem Shines Bright

Nestled discreetly in the heart of Fitzroy, this intimate Italian establishment manages to balance the unpretentious charm of a hidden gem with culinary credentials that leave a lasting imprint. Stepping into its warm embrace, you are immediately greeted by an ambience reminiscent of a cozy trattoria in Rome’s Trastevere district. The staff, predominantly Italian, exude genuine warmth and attentiveness, their care weaving through each interaction like the fine stitches of a tapestry. Their menu is both invitingly concise and yet explicitly crafted, highlighting the simplicity and elegance of authentic Italian fare. An early taste of Aubergine with cheese or Bruschetta, toasted to perfection, sets the tone—a prelude to what unfolds as a delightful journey through the nuances of Italian cuisine.

The seafood pasta arrived, harboring the faint whisper of the ocean, perfectly distending under al dente ribbons, while the Cannelloni della Nonna served a resounding echo of nostalgia with every bite—home-made perfection embodied. Though occasional reports of overcooked calamari lingered like brief shadows in an otherwise seamless experience, they hardly detracted from the restaurant's allure. Indeed, dining amidst the thriving neighborhood added to the undeniable charm, allowing the guests to dwell in hushed conversations, underlined by clinking glasses filled with thoughtfully curated wines. Whether you're lingering over dessert—the Tiramisu, rich and velvety—or retreating post-negronis on an impromptu stroll back to Euston, you find yourself mulling over the simple pleasures of exceptional food paired with sincere service. Visiting the Fitzroy is more like revisiting a cherished dream, one you savor and look for any reason to return to. — Jasper Griddle