Il Castelletto

Cozy Italian Charm Near British Museum

Stepping into Il Castelletto, one finds a pocket of Italy not just in its meticulous cucina but in the warm embrace with which it greets you. Nestled conveniently close to the British Museum, this charming spot has garnered a fervent following, as recent reviews suggest. I've visited numerous Italian haunts throughout London, but few capture that blend of familial warmth and classic recipes so authentically as this gem in Bloomsbury. Whether it's the taglioni marinara transporting you to the coastal regions of Liguria or the cannelloni making you feel like you're dining al fresco under the Tuscan sun, the food, brimming with genuine flavors, is a true testament to its roots.

The mood is distinctly cozy, transforming efficiently from hurried lunchtime cove to a leisurely dinner retreat. Guests have praised the friendly demeanor of staff, who seemingly run this eatery with more care than a Neapolitan aunt lovingly preparing Sunday dinner. For those eyeing a vegetarian spread, this haunt provides a delightful selection of non-carnivorous fare; the mushroom risotto, echoing the luscious hillsides of Northern Italy, comes highly recommended by seasoned patrons. Meanwhile, traditionalists might delight in the saltimbocca alla romana — meticulously crafted to invigorate the senses. The love for what they do is palpable and thankfully undeterred by a few missteps, perhaps a forgotten reservation or slightly heavy-handed pizza seasoning, which stand as trivial in light of the overwhelming praise. At Il Castelletto, it seems every day is a celebration of culinary tradition, with value-for-money offerings and service so congenial, it turns a simple meal into cherished memory-making. — Clarissa Cuisinier