La Gioconda

Tucked away on Hornsey High Street, La Gioconda is a cosy, family-run Italian restaurant that’s quickly becoming a local favourite.

Designed to evoke the warmth of an Italian home, the space features rustic décor, old family photographs, and crisp white walls that create a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. The unmistakable scent of woodsmoke drifts through the dining room, a clear sign of the restaurant’s dedication to authentic Neapolitan pizza.

Recipes passed down through generations shine on the menu, with pastas that have earned a loyal following. The gnocchi, oven-baked with four types of cheese: gorgonzola, mozzarella, parmesan, and pecorino romano, is perfect for cheese lovers. For a meaty bite, try Gioconda's wagyu beef tortellini, served in a rich butter sauce with truffle and Sardinian pecorino.

Among the mains, the ribeye is a standout: a thick, juicy 300g steak served with truffle chips and a fresh mixed salad. Or, opt for the grilled chicken fillet with mushrooms and roast potatoes in a creamy sauce.

La Gioconda is the kind of place that whisks you away to the charming cobbled streets of Naples with every bite.