Olivomare

A little Italian spot in London that I almost do not want to share. I looked back at these photos after lunch and immediately felt the urge to book again for the next day. It was that good. I first tried their sister restaurant Oliveto on the recommendation of an Italian friend and loved it. This visit to Olivomare made me love the group even more. The seafood and pasta were some of the happiest bites I have had recently. The cooking is simple. It is all about good ingredients, a bit of herbs, olive oil and garlic. The flavours build gently and beautifully. I wiped every plate clean with the bread. Starters were two specials of the day. The razor clams were incredibly plump and tender. The juices from the seafood and the olive oil collected in the shells and the bread soaked up every drop. I was genuinely emotional. The scallops were simply perfect and so tender. The pasta was the highlight. The linguine al granchio is a must. Sweet crab meat with garlic, chilli and parsley mixed with the pasta. You taste the sweetness first, then a little kick of chilli and the fragrance of the herbs. I loved this. The monkfish with courgette and basil was beautiful too. Light, clean flavours that show off the firm texture of the fish. Even the crisp bread in the basket was lovely. Thin and salty with little grains on top. I kept picking at it. The tiramisu looked amazing but I had no space left. Saving it for next time. The restaurant was full on a weekday lunch. Lots of well dressed locals enjoying their meals which says a lot. To me this place is the perfect example of small, simple and truly delicious. If you prefer rich, heavy sauces you might find it a little light. If you enjoy clean flavours with real depth this pasta will make you very happy. Already excited to go back.