Osteria Romana

As I stepped into Osteria Romana in Knightsbridge, London, I was immediately taken by the restaurant’s stunning decor. The ambiance felt both elegant and inviting, with beautiful seating areas adorned with artificial roses that added a touch of romance. You could tell this was a special place, especially knowing that all the produce is delivered directly from markets in Rome each week, ensuring an authentic Italian experience.

After a quick chat with the cameraman about our previous visit to the more affordable Pellicci’s Cafe, I was excited to delve into the menu here. With a range of starters, pastas, main courses, and side dishes, the choices were tantalising. I carefully considered the Roman-style veal with black truffle sauce but opted against it, fearing the flavours might be too overpowering. Instead, I chose the hand-sliced porchetta pork belly (£22) as a starter and the rigatoni with oxtail ragu and parmesan cheese (£22) as my main.

When my pork belly arrived, I was pleasantly surprised by its generous portion. This dish could easily serve two! As I took my first bite, the tenderness of the pork melted in my mouth, with delightful hints of garlic and orange bursting through. The lemon added a bright touch, enhancing the overall flavour and making every bite even more enjoyable.

Next came the rigatoni with oxtail ragu. The presentation was exquisite, and the dish arrived piping hot, emitting a rich and enticing aroma. As I twirled the perfectly cooked pasta around my fork, I couldn’t help but admire how the intense oxtail sauce enveloped each piece. It was a satisfying dish that embodied the simplicity and quality of authentic Italian cooking, and I knew it was something truly special. Was it worth the price? I think so.

I couldn’t resist finishing my meal with dessert, so I ordered a home-made tiramisu. When it arrived, its presentation was equally impressive. With creamy layers and a rich texture, this indulgent dessert was the perfect way to cap off the meal. The mascarpone and cocoa sprinkled on top provided a delightful finish, making me wish I could savour it for just a little longer.

Reflecting on the entire experience, I was blown away by the quality of both the food and the service. The attention to detail throughout my meal made each moment feel truly special. While the total bill came to £56, I felt justified in the expense given the exquisite location and exceptional cuisine. I wholeheartedly recommend Osteria Romana, rating my experience a remarkable 9.5 out of 10. If you ever find yourself in Knightsbridge, treat yourself to this culinary gem—you won’t regret it.