Luca

Luca is the Italian restaurant in Clerkenwell, from the team behind the Michelin-starred The Clove Club. Housed in an elegantly restored listed building, the interior features chic retro detailing, a bustling open kitchen, a separate bar area serving small plate dishes, 2 private spaces and a hidden garden. Small from the outside but go in past the bar and it opens into a spacious gorgeous modern restaurant. Luca serves artisan Italian cuisine made with a selection of the finest seasonal British produce. Antipasti, freshly made pasta and roasted meats and fish are complimented by regional Italian wines and a fine selection of Grappa and Amaro. The restaurant is open for lunch and dinner; Luca Bar works all day from noon.

Cuisine: Modern Italian with the twist.

Recommend: their legendary snack – the parmesan fries; beef carpaccio with oyster emulsion; roast orkney scallops with Jerusalem artichoke; squid ink bucatini with braised octopus, olives and preserved lemon; Sicilian lemon tart with fennel ice cream; warm chocolate mousse with blood orange ice cream. Or try the special six-course menu for £50. 

Atmosphere: relaxed.

The Crowd: creative types, artsy folks, local businessmen with their partners, stylish couples. 

Key info: good Italian wine selection.

Tags: Luca,London Restaurants,London