Sartoria Launceston Place

In South Kensington Sartoria Launceston Place honours the Italian art of a well-paced meal, from the first spritz to the final savoury bite. Its name hints at craftsmanship, and that is precisely what arrives at the table: classic recipes cut to a timeless pattern and presented with quiet confidence.

Aperitivo sets an elegant tone. The Campari Spritz and Peach Bellini invite a leisurely start, while Cicchetti e Pane encourages conviviality: crisp Calamari Fritti with a lick of chilli jam, and a generous Cestino di Pane for tearing and sharing with good olive oil. It is the kind of opening that rewards unhurried conversation.

Antipasti move with poise between silk and brine: Vitello Tonnato layered with capers, and Insalata di Polpo bright with potato, celery and olives. Primi bring depth and comfort, from Tagilatelle Ossobuco perfumed with saffron and parmesan to a sea-breezed Calamarata alla Pescatora brimming with mussels, clams and red prawns. Secondi stay resolutely faithful to tradition, whether The Real Veal Milanese with its simple tomato and lettuce salad, or Filetto al Pepe Verde, a 200g Angus beef fillet in a green pepper sauce. Contorni such as Spinaci Ripassati and Patate al Forno complete the picture.

Settle in and let the evening unfold course by course. Book a table, raise a glass, and enjoy Italian classics - tailored to the moment.