Lina Stores

Exquisite Pasta, Service Shines Wonderfully

Stepping into Lina Stores Clapham Common is akin to walking onto a cheerful, bustling scene from a Fellini film, where vibrant energy bounces off the pastel-washed walls amid tantalizing aromas wafting from the kitchen. My visit was bathed in sunshine and service smothered with the rich charisma of extraordinary staff members like Ernie and Moad, who elevate hospitality to an art form. As for the menu, it’s a culinary love letter to Italy, where each dish is more rapturous than the last. I found delight in the velvety Pappardelle with Lamb Ragù and a titillating Crab Linguine, championed by all as a must-try.

While portion sizes might require a slightly hefty wallet or an appreciation for petite dinings, the remarkable quality certainly earns its keep. The cocktails are all you could desire, adding a dash of the dolce vita to your palate's pirouette. Yet, consent must land on the matter of noise levels, with the general hubbub reshaping the atmosphere into an authentic Roman piazza vibrancy—just don't expect a hushed whisper over your Parmigiano. Still, all said and done, I echo my fellow diners: this is as much about the convivial embrace as the exquisite art on the plate. So do make sure to venture down and book a table—though at Lina’s, every visit feels comfortably booked into good memories. Buon Appetito! — Milo Tastemaker