Wildwood Covent Garden

Tucked into Covent Garden’s spirited streets, Wildwood channels a love of simple, satisfying cooking.

Its menu roams from Italian staples to grill-house comforts, all with a focus on familiar flavours done well. The mood’s easy-going and welcoming - it’s the kind of place where a slice, a bowl of pasta or something from the grill suits the moment.

Small plates set the pace: mozzarella and caramelised onion garlic bread brings garlicky warmth and slow sweetness, while tomato and ricotta bruschetta on focaccia is bright and creamy. Then pizza beckons, from the clarity of a Margherita to the funghi, where mushrooms, garlic and parsley offer earthy depth.

Pasta keeps things classic: spaghetti aglio e olio with a flicker of chilli and good olive oil, or seafood linguine with prawns and squid in a savoury garlic sauce. From the grill, choices range from a quick-fire minute steak to a Philly cheesesteak, while salads like chicken Caesar and Cobb add a crisp contrast. Sides include fries, sweet potato fries and zucchini fritti.

To finish, comfort calls in the form of sticky toffee pudding or a chocolate brownie, both happily paired with vanilla ice cream.

Drop in with appetites sharp and company good, and let Wildwood set the scene for a delicious winter interlude!