Italian food has become one of the most popular cuisines here in the UK. Practically every neighbourhood in London has at least one Italian restaurant serving pasta, pizza and more.
And if you live in Islington, you’re spoilt for choice when it comes to Italian food. The N1 postcode has a wide range of Italian restaurants inspired by food in Italy, from upmarket venues to popular casual spots.
So if you're wondering where they're located, worry not. In this guide we're bringing you eight of the best Italian restaurants in Islington.
1. Radici
Firstly, head to Radici on Alameda Street and soak up the rustic vibes while enjoying some top Italian nosh. Chef Patron Francesco Mazzei serves up everything from pizza to pasta inspired by the Mezzogiorno region of Italy.
The atmosphere here is lively, and it's a great place to go for a meal with friends and enjoy a bottle of wine or two while tucking into a pizza.
Radici offers a taste of Southern Italy right in the heart of Islington.
Address: 30 Almeida St, Islington, London N1 1AD
Phone: 020 7354 4777
Follow @radici_n1
2. La Vita é Bella
You will notice the quirky décor with its exposed brickwork as soon as you set foot in La Vita é Bella, another popular Italian restaurant in Islington. There's a wide-ranging menu here featuring wood-fired pizzas and a variety of pasta dishes.
Located on Theberton St, La Vita é Bella is tucked away from the hustle and bustle of Upper Street. Yet, its small space means there's always a lively atmosphere combined with welcoming hospitality from the La Vita é Bella team.
Address: 16 Theberton St, The Angel, London N1 0QX
Phone: 020 7359 7984
3. Café La Divina
Get your fix for pizza, pasta and grilled dishes at Cafe La Divina, one of the best Italian restaurants in Islington.
You’ll notice the model, life-size car hanging off the wall, along with the quirky wall art that pays homage to all things Italy, as soon as you walk in.
But the food will soon capture your attention, with tasty pizzas like the Toscana with tomato, mozzarella, Parma ham, rocket and Parmesan flakes.
Address: 134 Upper St, Islington, London N1 1QP
Phone: 020 8616 4149
[email protected]
Follow @cafeladivina
4. 500
Located just a stone's throw away in Archway, 500 is a popular Italian restaurant that's received rave reviews from critics. Enjoy great food and drinks, including an a la carte menu with dishes like Carpaccio tiepido di Manzo con nocciole (warm beef carpaccio, served with hazelnuts, grana Padano cheese and celery).
Moreover, there's plenty of Italian passion at 500, and it's easy to see why local residents have taken such a liking to this little gem close to Islington.
Address: 782 Holloway Rd, Upper Holloway, London N19 3JH
Phone: 020 7272 3406
Follow @500restaurant
5. Mangia Bene
Widely regarded as one of the best Italian restaurants in Islington, Mangia Bene is an informal spot serving up mouth-watering dishes in Chapel Market. Get an authentic taste of Italy in Islington with Italian bread, Zuppe soups, handmade pasta and some of the best calzones in town.
Oh, and don't forget to wash it all down with one of the reds from the extensive Italian wine list. The rustic interior and alfresco seating only add to the charm at Mangia Bene. And it's easy to see why it's such a hit with the locals.
Address: 18 Chapel Market, The Angel, London N1 9EZ
Phone: 020 7278 2825
Email: [email protected]
6. Trullo
Steeped in fine Italian traditions, Trullo will make you forget you're in North London and think you've been whisked away to Italy. It's well-known for its delicious pasta dishes and is easily one of the best Italian restaurants in Islington.
The settings are light and bright, providing the perfect spot to dine in, whether you're enjoying a lite lunch or heading there for dinner with a date.
Address: 300-302 St Paul's Rd, Highbury East, London N1 2LH
Phone: 020 7226 2733
Email: [email protected]
Follow @trullo_restaurant
7. Terra Rossa
Dine at Terra Rossa and enjoy a family-run Italian restaurant with plenty of style and flavour from the southern region of Puglia. Order one of the stone-baked pizzas and wash it down with a craft beer. Or go for a range of pasta that includes penne alla corsara and paccheri al ragu di mare while enjoying a nice glass of red wine.
Futhermore, there's also a gluten-free menu and kids menu, which makes Saponara a great spot for families.
Address: 139 Upper St, The Angel, London N1 1QP
Phone: 020 7226 2244
Email: [email protected]
Follow @terrarossa.london
8. Canonbury Kitchen
If you're looking for a modern spin on Italian cooking, then get yourself down to Canonbury Kitchen. The exposed brickwork and pale wood tables provide a modern setting for you to enjoy; making it one of the best Italian restaurants in Islington.
It's located just off Upper Street and serves up a range of dishes, including portions of pasta and mains like fresh tuna steak grilled with fennel & thyme oil and classic baked aubergine parmigiana.
And there's a great dessert menu, too!
Address: 19 Canonbury Ln, Islington, London N1 2AS
Phone: 020 7226 9791
Follow @ckitaliann1
The best Italian restaurants in Islington
As a neighbourhood with such an eclectic mix of restaurants, you’re spoilt for choice when it comes to Italian spots to enjoy authentic dishes in the N1 postcode.
So if you’re living in Islington, take your time and try the dishes at each venue on our list.
And even if you’re just passing through, any one of these Italian restaurants provides top-notch food that will leave you more than satisfied.
