Angela Hartnett's second restaurant, serving food from northern Italy.
Cafe Murano
Italian Restaurant in St James's
Ad
Cafe Murano Picture Gallery
All In London Review
Original Italian food at an elegant but buzzy restaurant
It’s quite a narrow restaurant, though elegant in its classic modern décor, and the tables are relatively close to each other but this doesn’t detract from the experience.
There’s a large bar along one wall and a panelled off area towards the back. The clientele is varied – groups of business people, tourists, couples and friends. It was a Wednesday evening and the place was buzzing.
My spring salad (£8.50) starter was underwhelming but then it’s hard to make leaves exciting. My companion’s tagliatelle (£11) small starter portion appeared to go down well.
For the main course we decided to share the sea bream for two (£32). This was a triumph. Perfectly cooked light fish with an original orange and pistachio dressing that didn’t overpower the delicate fish. I had potatoes fritti (£4.50) and my companion Jersey Royals (£4.50). These sides good size portions and well-seasoned.
The blanc de morge wine (£11.50) was the waiter’s suggestion and excellent. My companion also enjoyed her Carbaiona (£15).
We were replete but decided to try the desserts. My companion’s huge portion of amaretti cake (£6.50) was a wonder to behold. But my pineapple carpaccio with a mint sorbet (£7) was probably the most delicious dessert I’ve ever tasted. It was sweet and tart, cool and fresh and very juicy. I will dream about that pineapple.
Three courses each and three glasses of excellent wine between us and the bill (including service) came to £126. For the location and the quality of food and service I thought this extremely reasonable.
If you can’t quite afford the prices at Angela Hartnett’s restaurant in Covent Garden this is a perfect choice for original and well cooked food in a smart restaurant in the West End.
Reviewed by KimT
Published on Jul 20, 2018
User Reviews
Susan
from Abbey Road
from Abbey Road
Jun 19, 2014
I can't believe this is called a cafe - that just doesn't do it justice. This feels like the michelin-starred restaurant in terms of the level of food and service, but perhaps with a little less pomp. Beautiful interiors, beautiful food and wonderfully warm staff - I'd go here all the time if my wallet and geography allowed!!
Have your say
Add a review or useful tip for this restaurant