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Are you searching for the best Italian restaurants near London Bridge? Whether you’re craving authentic handmade pasta, wood-fired pizza, or fresh seafood, this area is home to some of the finest Italian eateries in London.
With a mix of casual trattorias, high-end dining spots, and hidden gems, there’s something for every taste and budget. But which Italian restaurants truly stand out in this bustling riverside district?
In this guide, we’ve compiled a must-try list of the top 10 Italian restaurants in London Bridge, highlighting their unique specialities, locations, and what makes them worth visiting.
From traditional Neapolitan flavours to modern Italian cuisine, these restaurants offer an exceptional dining experience. If you’re looking for authentic Italian food with great ambiance, this list will help you find the perfect spot to indulge in Italian excellence.
What Makes London Bridge a Top Destination for Italian Cuisine?
London Bridge has become a culinary hotspot with a wide selection of Italian restaurants that blend tradition and innovation. One reason for this is the area’s rich food culture, heavily influenced by its proximity to Borough Market, where many restaurants source fresh ingredients.
This allows chefs to create authentic Italian dishes using high-quality, seasonal produce. Another factor is the diverse range of Italian eateries, from casual pasta bars like Emilia’s Crafted Pasta to fine dining experiences like Cafe Murano.
Whether you’re looking for classic wood-fired pizzas at ‘O Ver or speciality seafood at Baccalà, London Bridge offers an exceptional variety. The combination of scenic riverside locations, top-quality ingredients, and expert chefs makes this area one of the best places to experience true Italian dining in London.
How to Choose the Best Italian Restaurant Near London Bridge?
With so many top-rated Italian restaurants in London Bridge, choosing the right one depends on what you’re looking for. If you’re after handmade pasta with traditional sauces, then Bancone Borough Yards or Emilia’s Crafted Pasta are excellent choices. For a seafood-focused experience, Baccalà Seafood & Wine offers some of the freshest Italian-inspired seafood dishes.
For those who appreciate fine dining with a Michelin-level experience, Cafe Murano Bermondsey stands out with its elegant menu crafted by renowned chef Angela Hartnett.
If you prefer a casual yet vibrant atmosphere, then Vapiano Tower Bridge is an ideal spot for customisable Italian dishes. By considering factors such as menu variety, ambiance, price range, and dining preferences, you can easily find an Italian restaurant in London Bridge that suits your needs.
10 Best Italian Restaurants London Bridge
1. Tavolino Bar & Kitchen
Tavolino Bar & Kitchen is a stylish Italian restaurant located near London Bridge, offering a stunning riverside dining experience. With breathtaking views of the Thames and Tower Bridge, this modern Italian eatery is perfect for those who appreciate both ambiance and authentic cuisine.
The restaurant prides itself on using high-quality, locally sourced ingredients to craft traditional Italian dishes with a contemporary touch. The menu features a variety of classic dishes, including handmade pasta, wood-fired pizzas, and rich, flavourful sauces. Their signature truffle tagliatelle and slow-cooked beef ragu pappardelle are must-try dishes.
Tavolino also boasts an impressive selection of Italian wines and cocktails, making it an ideal spot for a relaxed lunch, a romantic dinner, or even a business meeting. Whether you’re after a casual meal or a fine dining experience, Tavolino Bar & Kitchen delivers a memorable taste of Italy.
- Website: tavolino.co.uk
- Contact: 020 8194 1037
- Location: 2 More London Pl, London SE1 2JP
2. ‘O Ver Borough
‘O Ver Borough brings the authentic taste of Naples to London Bridge, with a menu inspired by traditional Italian flavours and techniques. One of its unique features is the use of pure sea water in its pizza dough, which enhances the flavour and texture of the crust.
This attention to detail makes their Neapolitan-style pizzas stand out, offering a lighter and more digestible alternative to conventional pizza. Beyond pizza, ‘O Ver Borough serves a variety of Italian specialities, including homemade pasta, fresh seafood, and indulgent desserts.
Their Tagliatelle with truffle and Parmesan is a must-try for pasta lovers. The warm, rustic interior and friendly service make it a welcoming spot for both casual and special occasions. Located in the heart of Borough, it’s a perfect destination for those seeking an authentic Italian dining experience.
- Website: overuk.com
- Contact: 020 7378 9933
- Location: 44-46 Southwark St, London SE1 1UN
3. Bancone Borough Yards
Bancone Borough Yards is a paradise for pasta lovers, offering handmade, silk-like pasta dishes crafted with precision and passion.
Located in a stylish, modern setting near Borough Market, this restaurant is known for its high-quality ingredients and innovative takes on classic Italian recipes. The open kitchen allows diners to watch skilled chefs preparing fresh pasta daily, adding to the immersive dining experience.
Signature dishes include “Silk Handkerchiefs” with walnut butter and confit egg yolk, as well as slow-cooked beef shin ragu pappardelle. The restaurant’s elegant yet relaxed atmosphere makes it a great choice for both intimate dinners and casual gatherings.
With a carefully curated wine list to complement its dishes, Bancone is a must-visit for those who appreciate authentic Italian craftsmanship in a contemporary setting.
- Website: bancone.co.uk
- Contact: 020 3034 1229
- Location: Arch 213, 18 Stoney St, London SE1 9AD
4. Vapiano Tower Bridge
Vapiano Tower Bridge offers a unique fast-casual Italian dining experience, where customers can customise their meals according to their taste preferences.
The restaurant focuses on fresh, made-to-order pasta, risotto, and pizza, allowing diners to watch their dishes being prepared at live cooking stations. This interactive concept ensures high-quality food and a personalised dining experience.
Popular choices include fresh pesto basil pasta, creamy carbonara, and hand-stretched pizzas topped with premium ingredients.
The spacious and modern interior, combined with its vibrant atmosphere, makes it a great choice for groups, families, and casual meet-ups. Located just a short walk from Tower Bridge, Vapiano provides a relaxed yet stylish environment for enjoying quick, high-quality Italian cuisine.
- Website: uk.vapiano.com
- Contact: 020 3941 5550
- Location: Unit 2, 1 Tower Bridge, London SE1 2SF
5. Flour & Grape
Flour & Grape is a well-loved Italian restaurant in Bermondsey, specialising in homemade pasta and carefully selected Italian wines.
Its warm, intimate setting and affordable pricing make it a popular choice for those looking to enjoy authentic Italian flavours without the fine dining price tag. The restaurant is known for its fresh, daily-made pasta, perfectly paired with rich, flavourful sauces.
Standout dishes include the beef short rib pappardelle, crab linguine, and wild mushroom ravioli. The wine list is expertly curated, ensuring that every dish has a perfect Italian wine pairing.
With a laid-back yet sophisticated atmosphere, Flour & Grape is ideal for date nights, casual dinners, or a relaxed evening out with friends. The restaurant’s commitment to quality ingredients and traditional Italian cooking techniques has made it a local favourite.
- Website: flourandgrape.com
- Contact: 020 7407 4682
- Location: 214 Bermondsey St, London SE1 3TQ
6. Giuseppe’s Ristorante Italiano & Pizzeria
Giuseppe’s Ristorante Italiano & Pizzeria is one of the most established family-run Italian restaurants near London Bridge, offering a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Known for its authentic Italian recipes passed down through generations, this restaurant serves classic pasta dishes, wood-fired pizzas, and fresh seafood specialities.
Their signature lasagna, seafood risotto, and traditional margherita pizza are highly recommended. The welcoming ambiance, combined with live music on select evenings, makes Giuseppe’s a charming place for a memorable dining experience.
Whether you’re looking for a relaxed meal or a lively evening out, this restaurant captures the heart of traditional Italian hospitality. With its homely décor and generous portions, Giuseppe’s Ristorante is a true hidden gem in London Bridge.
- Website: giuseppesplace.com
- Contact: 020 7407 3451
- Location: 47-49 Borough High St, London SE1 1NB
7. Baccalà Seafood & Wine
Baccalà Seafood & Wine is a speciality Italian seafood restaurant in Bermondsey, offering a refined menu that highlights fresh fish, shellfish, and expertly curated wines. Inspired by coastal Italian cuisine, the restaurant focuses on seasonal ingredients and authentic flavours.
Signature dishes include grilled octopus, Sicilian-style swordfish, and house-made seafood pasta. With a strong emphasis on sustainability, Baccalà sources its seafood responsibly while ensuring a premium dining experience.
The extensive wine list features hand-picked Italian wines that perfectly complement the dishes. If you’re a seafood lover looking for an elevated yet relaxed dining spot, Baccalà offers one of the best Italian seafood experiences near London Bridge.
- Website: baccalalondon.co.uk
- Contact: 020 7407 5514
- Location: Unit B3, 194 Bermondsey St, London SE1 3TQ
8. Flavours of Naples
Flavours of Naples is a hidden gem in London Bridge, known for its authentic Neapolitan-style pizzas and traditional Southern Italian cuisine.
This restaurant prides itself on using imported Italian ingredients, including San Marzano tomatoes and fior di latte mozzarella, ensuring an authentic taste in every dish.
Their wood-fired pizzas, particularly the classic Margherita and Diavola, are standout favourites. Alongside pizza, the menu includes handmade pasta, fresh antipasti, and rich Italian desserts like tiramisu and cannoli.
The restaurant’s cosy, welcoming atmosphere makes it a great choice for a casual Italian meal with a true Neapolitan touch. If you’re craving rustic Italian flavours in a relaxed setting, Flavours of Naples is a must-visit.
- Website: flavoursofnaples.com
- Contact: 07435 993545
- Location: 299 Borough High St, London SE1 1JG
9. Cafe Murano Bermondsey
Cafe Murano Bermondsey, owned by Michelin-starred chef Angela Hartnett, offers a refined take on classic Italian trattoria-style dining. The menu features simple yet elegant dishes made with top-quality ingredients, delivering the authentic essence of Northern Italian cuisine.
Signature dishes include slow-cooked veal ragu pappardelle, saffron risotto, and fresh burrata with roasted vegetables. The warm and stylish interior, combined with impeccable service, creates a sophisticated yet comfortable dining experience.
Their extensive wine list is carefully curated to pair perfectly with each dish. For those seeking a high-end Italian meal in a relaxed setting, Cafe Murano Bermondsey is a fantastic choice.
- Website: cafemurano.co.uk
- Contact: 020 3985 1545
- Location: 184 Bermondsey St, London SE1 3TQ
10. Emilia’s Crafted Pasta (St. Katharine Docks)
Emilia’s Crafted Pasta is a must-visit for pasta enthusiasts, specialising in fresh, handmade pasta inspired by Italy’s Emilia-Romagna region. This restaurant focuses on simplicity, using high-quality ingredients to create rich, flavourful dishes without unnecessary complexity.
Popular dishes include slow-cooked Bolognese pappardelle, four-cheese rigatoni, and creamy carbonara. Every pasta dish is made fresh daily, ensuring perfect texture and flavour.
The restaurant’s rustic, laid-back atmosphere, combined with its focus on traditional Italian pasta-making techniques, makes Emilia’s a fantastic spot for a satisfying meal. If you’re looking for London’s best handmade pasta, this is the place to be.
- Website: emiliaspasta.com
- Contact: 020 7481 2004
- Location: Unit C3, Ivory House, St Katharine Docks, London E1W 1AT
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What Are the Signature Italian Dishes You Must Try in London Bridge?
Each of the top Italian restaurants in London Bridge offers unique dishes that showcase Italy’s rich culinary heritage. Fresh handmade pasta is a highlight at Bancone and Emilia’s Crafted Pasta, where dishes, like slow-cooked Bolognese pappardelle and truffle butter tagliatelle, steal the show.
For authentic Neapolitan-style pizza, ‘O Ver Borough is a must-visit, featuring traditional pizza dough made with pure seawater. If you’re a seafood lover, Baccalà Seafood & Wine offers exquisite dishes such as grilled octopus and Sicilian-style swordfish.
Those looking for classic Italian comfort food should visit Flour & Grape, known for its beef short rib pappardelle and wild mushroom ravioli. Whether you prefer pasta, pizza, or seafood, these restaurants serve authentic Italian specialities prepared with premium ingredients.
Conclusion
London Bridge is a fantastic destination for Italian cuisine, offering a diverse range of restaurants that cater to different tastes and preferences. Whether you’re in the mood for hand-rolled pasta, gourmet pizza, or seafood specialities, the Italian restaurants in this area provide an authentic dining experience with high-quality ingredients and traditional recipes.
From the refined elegance of Cafe Murano to the casual charm of Vapiano, every restaurant on this list has something unique to offer. Whether you’re planning a romantic dinner, a business meeting, or a casual outing with friends, you’ll find a perfect Italian spot near London Bridge.
So, next time you’re in the area, be sure to visit one of these top-rated Italian restaurants for an unforgettable taste of Italy right in the heart of London.
FAQs
What is the best Italian restaurant in London Bridge for handmade pasta?
Bancone Borough Yards and Emilia’s Crafted Pasta are top choices for handmade pasta, offering fresh, authentic Italian dishes with rich sauces.
Where can I find affordable Italian food near London Bridge?
Flour & Grape and Vapiano Tower Bridge offer high-quality Italian cuisine at reasonable prices, perfect for budget-friendly yet delicious meals.
Which Italian restaurant in London Bridge serves the best pizza?
‘O Ver Borough is known for its authentic Neapolitan-style pizza, made with pure sea water for a lighter, more flavourful crust.
What is the best seafood-focused Italian restaurant in London Bridge?
Baccalà Seafood & Wine is the best choice for fresh, high-quality seafood dishes, including Sicilian swordfish and grilled octopus.
Which Italian restaurant in London Bridge offers the best wine selection?
Cafe Murano Bermondsey and Baccalà Seafood & Wine have extensive Italian wine lists, perfectly paired with their authentic dishes.
Are there any family-run Italian restaurants near London Bridge?
Giuseppe’s Ristorante Italiano & Pizzeria is a long-standing family-run restaurant, offering traditional Italian recipes with a homely feel.
What is the best Italian restaurant in London Bridge for a romantic dinner?
Tavolino Bar & Kitchen offers stunning riverside views and a cosy ambiance, making it an ideal spot for a romantic Italian dining experience.
