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 is easy-going and welcoming, 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 fungi, 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, twirling prawns and squid through a white wine gloss. From the grill, choices range from a quick-fire minute steak to a Philly cheesesteak layered with peppers and onions, while salads such as chicken Caesar and Cobb provide crisp contrast. Sides run to fries, sweet potato too, and zucchini fritters.

To finish, comfort calls in the form of sticky toffee pudding or a chocolate brownie, both happily paired with vanilla ice cream. Cocktails lean playful with a Passion Margarita or Kiwi Mojito, and there is a choice of white and red wines. Drop in with appetites sharp and company good, and let Wildwood set the scene for a delicious interlude.