Piccolino Exchange Square

Talal's Service Shines Amid Delicious Dishes

Piccolino offers a slice of Italy in the heart of London, where nearly everyone is warmly greeted like an old friend, particularly by the attentive service of Talal, who seems to have developed quite the fan club. The restaurant excels at delivering an immersive dining experience with its authentic Italian classics and an ambiance that paves the way for either a leisurely meal or energetic catch-ups with friends over spritzy cocktails. Delightfully, the menu is a celebration of seasonal Italian cuisine featuring luscious calamari, beef shin ravioli, and perfectly rich ragu among others, accompanied by an enviable selection of wines that match these dishes beautifully.

While the food generally leaves guests applauding, what sets Piccolino apart is its exceptionally convivial service. Servers like Talal—known for keeping your prosecco topped up attentively without being intrusive—are ambassadors of benevolence in this lively setting, contributing much charm alongside Mary and Fabio who make any visit remarkable. Despite some inconsistencies during larger events such as the bottomless brunches—with reports of delays and staff scarcity dampening the party spirit—the intimate outdoor terrace provides a charming retreat after meal times, making it ever so tempting to linger a little longer with an expertly crafted cocktail by Alexandre. The experience is marred only by occasional lapses in consistency, but overall, Piccolino continues to be a hotspot for memorable meals that transport you straight to Italy. — Nigel Gourmet