If there is a prettier garden in which to sit and dine in London I certainly haven't seen it.
Il Giardino, set in fabulous Sydney Street Chelsea is a very pretty restaurant indeed both inside the light, airy, conservatory style dining room or al fresco in the gorgeous garden which is large enough so the tables are styled for comfort rather than crammed in. I felt quite spoilt from the moment I walked in.
Where ever you choose the sit the food is excellent..... from the antipasto followed by an amazing Prawn Tempura and then on to the truly historic (a nod to Mr. Winner there) home made spinach and ricotta ravioli that seriously rival my mother's which has been hitherto unheard of. The lamb was delicious, perfectly cooked and rested enough to be meltingly tender. I also sampled Bottarga for the first time with more amazing home made pasta and it was a party in my mouth. Despite being very sated I couldn't resist trying the cheesecake, it was perfect.
Being Italian people always ask me where they can get 'real' Italian food in London. The word 'real' invoking memories of startlit dinners and languourous lunches eaten under a Tuscan sun. In future......I'll be sending them to Il Giardino.
It's a real taste of Italian Summer in a beautiful English Garden. read more