In the heart of London, just steps away from the world-famous National Gallery in the newly reopened Sainsbury Wing, you’ll find a place where time slows, flavours linger, and every meal feels like a return to something familiar, yet extraordinary. Welcome to Locatelli at the National Gallery — where the timeless elegance of Italian dining meets the vibrant energy of one of the city’s most iconic cultural destinations.
A Celebration of Simplicity
At the heart of Locatelli’s philosophy is a simple truth: when the ingredients are good, you don’t need to do much. Giorgio Locatelli has always championed the beauty of simplicity — allowing the natural flavours of each ingredient to shine without unnecessary embellishment. It’s Italian cooking at its most honest. No tricks, no fuss — just respect for the product, prepared with care.
Every plate at Locatelli London reflects this approach. From delicate handmade pastas to vibrant antipasti and perfectly grilled fish, each dish feels like an invitation to slow down and savour. The menu draws inspiration from Giorgio’s deep Italian heritage, paying homage to family recipes, coastal traditions, and the sun-soaked markets of the Mediterranean.
Fritto Misto: A Taste of the Italian Coastline
Among the many highlights on the menu is the classic fritto misto — Italy’s answer to tempura, executed with lightness and care. Fresh fish and seafood, tender courgettes, and a crisp, golden batter come together to create a dish that instantly transports you to the Italian seaside.
Served with a soft parsley mayonnaise, this is the kind of dish that evokes long lunches by the sea — the sun warm on your skin, the gentle sound of waves breaking in the distance, and the simple joy of sharing good food with good company. It’s a taste of Italy’s coastal soul, right here in the heart of London.
A Dining Room Designed to Welcome
Of course, the experience at Locatelli at the National Gallery is not only about the food — it’s also about the space itself. The dining room blends modern design with timeless warmth. Soft, curved banquettes, rich wood finishes, and elegant touches create a space that feels both sophisticated and inviting.
Whether you’re stopping in for a leisurely lunch, an early evening glass of wine, or a longer dinner with friends, the atmosphere invites you to relax, unwind, and stay a little longer.
Extended Weekend Opening Hours: More Time to Enjoy
And now, there’s even more time to enjoy everything that Locatelli has to offer. With extended weekend opening hours, you can linger a little longer over your favourite dishes, sip that extra glass of wine, and truly make the most of your visit.
Opening Hours:
Sunday to Thursday — 11:30am to 5:45pm
Friday — 11:30am to 10:15pm
Saturday — 11:30am to 8:15pm
Whether you’re visiting after a day exploring the masterpieces of the National Gallery or simply looking for an authentic Italian restaurant in London, Locatelli London offers a dining experience that is both relaxed and refined.
More Than a Meal — A Memory
At its core, dining at Locatelli is about more than food. It’s about creating moments: it’s where conversations linger, where laughter drifts between courses, where time softens over a glass of wine. The food is honest. The setting, timeless. The memories — unforgettable.
In a city as fast-paced as London, Locatelli at the National Gallery offers a rare pause. A place to reconnect with the simple pleasures of Italian cooking — to taste, to share, and to remember.
