Tucked between central London’s cobbled streets and lively piazzas lies a world of hidden treasures. From tucked-away courtyards to charming alleyways, Covent Garden is full of surprises for those willing to wander just a little off the beaten path. Among these secrets, one stands out: Giovanni’s, our beloved Italian restaurant in Covent Garden, nestled in the historic Goodwin’s Court.
For curious explorers and food lovers alike, this part of London offers the perfect pairing of rich history and authentic Italian cuisine. Here’s how to uncover both.
Discovering the Hidden Courtyards of Covent Garden
While Covent Garden is known for its vibrant Piazza, world-class street performers, and buzzing markets, its real charm is often found in its quieter corners. Places like Neal’s Yard, bursting with colourful facades and tucked-away cafés, or Seven Dials, where seven atmospheric streets meet at a central sundial monument, offer a more relaxed pace and a glimpse into the area’s layered history.
But perhaps the most magical of them all is Goodwin’s Court, a narrow, gaslit alleyway dating back to 1690. With its original shopfronts, lanterns, and whisper of another time, this hidden passage feels like stepping into a different era. It’s here, behind an unassuming doorway, that you’ll find Giovanni’s.
A True Hidden Gem: Giovanni’s Italian Restaurant in Covent Garden
Giovanni’s isn’t just located in a hidden part of the city; it’s a hidden gem in every sense. Our Italian restaurant offers an escape from the hustle and bustle, serving up traditional Sicilian dishes in a cosy, candlelit setting.
As a family-run restaurant, we’ve stayed true to the recipes and hospitality passed down through generations. The menu is a celebration of authentic Italian cooking, from comforting pasta dishes to hearty mains, each crafted with care and the finest ingredients.
Whether you’re stopping in for a long, lazy lunch or rounding off your day with a romantic dinner, Giovanni’s is the kind of place where meals turn into memories.
Surrounding Attractions in Covent Garden
Of course, no day out in Covent Garden would be complete without taking in the surrounding sights. Just minutes from Giovanni’s, you’ll find some of the best attractions in Covent Garden, including:
- The Royal Opera House for ballet and opera lovers.
- The London Transport Museum, a fascinating look at the capital’s history through the lens of travel.
- Covent Garden Piazza, perfect for a spot of shopping, live music, or people-watching.
- Theatres of the West End, including the Duke of York’s, Noël Coward and St Martin’s Theatre.
It’s easy to make a day of it. So, why not start with sightseeing, explore the courtyards, then settle into Giovanni’s for a well-earned meal?
The Covent Garden You Haven’t Seen Yet
From secret corners to culinary delights, Covent Garden is a place that rewards slow wandering and spontaneous turns.
So next time you’re in the area, skip the tourist trail and step into the heart of Covent Garden’s hidden charm. And when hunger calls, follow the lanterns down Goodwin’s Court to Giovanni’s, where hidden flavours await in one of London’s most historic and atmospheric dining spots.
Book your table today and experience the magic of Covent Garden.