Inspired by the famous seafood restaurant of the same name in Rome, this is owned by a consortium of Italian-Americans who, we're told, would prefer to remain nameless. The head chef is Paolo Petruccelli, previously in the kitchen at the Roman original.
The fish is flown in daily from Italy and includes: escalope of gilthead bream in a lemon sauce; parcels of sea fox wrapped in chard; fresh fusilli pasta in a sea bass and lemon sauce; spaghetti with native clams from Lake Paola; main courses will depend on the catch of the day, and will be sold by weight (expect to pay accordingly) and will range from oven-baked turbot to scorpion fish; desserts include mini black raspberry cake, hot vanilla soufflé; chef's special puff pastry.
Designed by the Italian architects Delogu Architetti Associati, it is modelled on its namesake in Rome, but is also like Rao's in Brooklyn, New York - small and intimate, reminiscent of Italian-American restaurants of the 1930s and 40s. With dark wood and Pompeiano red walls, a decked terrace for al-fresco dining and a three-metre display of the day's fresh fish on ice. It can handle 90 covers.
84-86 Lillie Road, Fulham, London SW6
Tel: 020 7610 0037
The Gurnard's Head
Head chef Matt Williamson's menu boasts: slow-roast belly of pork stuffed with rhubarb and oats, polenta and Cabernet vinegar sauce. Caters for up to 50 covers.
Treen, Zennor, Cornwall TR26 3DE
Tel: 01736 796928
The Refectory at St Davids
Former accountant, Bill Sewell's third ecclesiastical project. The menu boasts: shoulder of Pembrokeshire Lamb, roast aubergine, haricot beans and flatbread.
St Davids Cathedral, Haverfordwest SA62 6RH
Tel: 01437 721760
Mooli
First solo venture of Mike Filpi, founder of Eclipse Bars. Menu boasts: veal stuffed with sautéed aubergines and Taleggio cheese. Seats 34 inside, 24 al fresco.
36A Old Town, Clapham London SW4
Tel: 020 7627 1166Hosteria Del Pesce
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