A slice of Italy in the heart of London

When it comes to spotting celebrities in London, I seem much less fortunate than my peers. While they regale tales of lounging on a rooftop bar sharing a bottle of something terribly expensive with the likes of Emily Ratajkowski, the only really tangible experience I have is seeing Bill Nighy relaxing in the sun with a paper outside todays location of discussion; Lina Stores. The Soho resident was somehow succeeding in making this seated stance look completely characterful in his usual attire of impeccable tailoring. You can’t really ask for a better gentleman’s endorsement.

Lina Stores has been the deli of choice for anyone in the know for decades. I hasten to proudly say that we have been popping in for a quick “pasta break” in Soho since we moved to London and have never looked back. You will find some of the best fresh pasta in the city, bathed in sage butter and copious amounts of parmesan. Lucky for us, the owners have decided to start serving hot food at indoor and outdoor tables for the first time in their 70 year history, meaning we no longer have to huddle over boxes of ravioli next to a questionable shop in the neighbouring alley like white carb crack addicts.

Everything is extremely Instagram friendly, from the myriad of hanging meats to the al fresco tables, collection of vases and oils, all drenched in minty hues and white marble. On a hot muggy London day it can feel like a Sicilian side street with the added hustle and bustle – perfect for people watching.

The food is a genuine Italian affair, good for the soul and terrible for the waistline; no showy plating, just simply brilliant ingredients and, in most cases, lashings of olive oil. Politely ask for Pierluigi and let him order for you. His first recommendation is Caponata Siciliana, an aubergine dish. It’s not sexy to look at but it’s one of the tastiest things we ate that evening, especially when spread on hunks of homemade focaccia. We also enjoy the milky fresh Burrata served on a bed of Prosciutto di Parma, the Peperoni Ripieni and… more pasta, well why not? In a place like this, the wine was always going to be the winner. However, should you be incapable of enjoying good wine, shame on you, they also have some quality Italian craft beer to satisfy your needs.

With the last heatwave approaching, and prayers for an Indian Summer in the midst, we recommend Lina Stores as the best location to squeeze the final drops of Summer before we retire to flannel suits and cashmere roll necks.

Best For – Al Fresco dining, light bites and washing away thoughts of a busy day at the office.