Italian cuisine is loved all around the world, for its amazing flavours, hearty feel, and authentic recipes. We have picked some authentic Italian dishes from our London restaurant to guide you on your Italian dining adventure. From mouthwatering cheesy starters to wholesome meat dishes and incredible pasta creations, these dishes will take you straight to Italy. Below, we share with you what makes each dish so special, providing insights into their rich history and culinary significance.

 

Burrata Artigiana

Burrata Artigiana is a creamy and decadent Italian dish that is commonly enjoyed as a starter in Italian restaurants. Crafted from fresh buffalo milk, this delicious cheese is shaped into a delicate bundle that’s filled with a creamy centre bursting with flavour.

 

Accompanied by a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil, a dash of sea salt, and freshly ground black pepper, it offers a delightful start to your meal and a taste of authentic Italian cheese. It often comes alongside bread, perfect for dipping into your burrata. You can pair this cheesy starter with a crisp white wine such as Pinot Grigio or a light-bodied Chardonnay to enhance its richness and cleanse your palate.

 

Spaghetti Casa Nostra

Spaghetti Casa Nostro is a beloved classic that truly captures the essence of Italian cuisine, and is ideal for those seeking a comforting and wholesome meat-free main meal. It’s made with perfectly cooked al dente spaghetti, enveloped in a flavourful tomato sauce that’s infused with aromatic garlic, basil, and a touch of spicy chilli flakes.

 

Topped with freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese, it delivers a delightful blend of cheese and tomato flavours with remarkable depth. You can pair this main course with medium-bodied red wines like Chianti Classico or Sangiovese to accentuate its savoury elements and earthy nuances.

 

Bucatini all’ Amatriciana

Bucatini all’ Amatriciana is a dish that transports your taste buds to the quaint streets of Amatrice, and it’s celebrated all through Italy for its rustic charm. This quintessential pasta features hollow spaghetti-like noodles called bucatini, tossed in a savoury sauce made from cured pork cheek (guanciale), tomatoes, onions, and pecorino cheese.

 

It embodies the essence of rustic Italian countryside cuisine, showcasing the rich flavours of guanciale and the tanginess of tomatoes in perfect harmony. It’s ideal for those craving a hearty and indulgent main dish, and its rich pork cheek flavours cater to meat lovers’ palates. This dish pairs perfectly with a bold red wine like Barbera or Montepulciano d’Abruzzo to complement its robust flavours and full character.

 

Fegato con Guanciale

Fegato con Guanciale is a robust and authentic Italian dish that highlights the culinary excellence of Roman Cuisine. This flavorful dish showcases tender calf liver sautéed with crispy guanciale (cured pork jowl), caramelised onions, and a splash of white wine, blending savoury and sweet notes harmoniously.

 

It’s an ideal main course choice for those seeking new and rich flavour experiences, especially with calf liver, a meat many have yet to try. The rich and buttery texture of the liver perfectly contrasts with the salty crunch of the guanciale, delivering a truly unique taste sensation. You can pair this dish with full-bodied red wines like Barolo or Brunello di Montalcino to complement its depth of flavours and enhance the dining experience.

 

Lasagne della Zia Maria

Lasagne della Zia Maria is a cherished Italian classic that holds a special place in many of our hearts. Layered with delicate pasta sheets, it intertwines a hearty meat ragu, creamy bechamel sauce, and a generous sprinkle of Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese, offering a delightful fusion of flavours and textures.

 

Baked with care, this dish epitomises the warmth and generosity of Italian home cooking. It’s the perfect main course choice for those craving a comforting and satisfying meal, that reminds them of home. Lasagne pairs wonderfully with robust red wines like Barbaresco or Chianti Reserva, enhancing its rich flavours and velvety texture.

 

Welcome to Giovanni’s

Trying to find an authentic Italian dining experience in London? Giovanni’s, nestled in the heart of Covent Garden, is an independent and family-run restaurant that offers a delectable array of Italian dishes including the mouthwatering specialities mentioned above. With recipes passed down through generations and a commitment to Sicilian flavours, we take pride in serving the tastiest Italian cuisine. We’ve been serving our delicious food at our London restaurant since 1952; bringing a slice of Italy to our intimate and inviting restaurant.

 

We invite you to indulge in a range of delectable mains, starters, and sides, all cooked by our expert chefs and accompanied by an extensive selection of mouth-watering Italian wines. Whether you’re celebrating a meal out with your partner, friends, or family, our courteous and welcoming team is dedicated to providing you with exceptional service throughout your meal.

 

Ready to savour the flavours of Italy at our intimate Italian restaurant in London? We’d be delighted to have you. Reserve a table on our website or give us a call. Join us at Giovanni’s for a taste of Italy right here in the heart of London.