A Culinary Odyssey through London's Newest Luxury Dining Destination Luciano by Gino D'Acampo

Imagine a world where each bite transports you to the sun-soaked shores of Italy, where the scent of the Mediterranean Sea mingles with the aromas of fresh basil and ripe tomatoes. Such a world exists in the heart of London, at the exquisite Luciano by Gino D'Acampo. Nestled along the vibrant streets of the capital, this Italian culinary oasis redefines the art of dining, elevating it to an unparalleled level of luxury and indulgence.

Upon entering Luciano, you are immediately enveloped in an atmosphere of timeless elegance. The restaurant's interior exudes a sense of understated opulence, with its soft, muted colour palette, plush velvet seating, and subtle hints of gold. The warm, dimmed lighting casts a gentle glow, creating an intimate ambience perfect for romantic evenings, special celebrations, or simply a delightful escape from the bustling city outside.

Luciano's menu, meticulously curated by the culinary genius Gino D'Acampo himself, is a testament to the rich and diverse flavours of Italy. From the first taste, it's evident that each dish is a labour of love, crafted with the finest ingredients and an unwavering commitment to authenticity – and I must add, the portion sizes are very generous.

During aperitivo time, from 5 pm to 7 pm, this stylish West End restaurant at the five-star ME London hotel invites you to savour complimentary cicchetti alongside your summer drinks. The alfresco terrace, just steps from Covent Garden, offers a prime spot for people-watching over Aperol Spritz or a classic Negroni while soaking up the city's vibrant atmosphere.

Cicchetti delights, such as Cerignola Olives, Parma Ham, Heritage Tomato Bruschetta, and more, accompany your pre-dinner cocktails. Highlights from the summer drinks list include signature cocktails like "Breakfast with Hemingway," featuring Havana Club 3yr rum, Maraschino liqueur, grapefruit, lime, and grapefruit marmalade (£15), and "Luce Verde," combining Ginato Pinot Grigio gin and Hotel Starlino elderflower aperitivo with lime, grapes, and cucumber (£14).

For those seeking a longer evening, the bar offers an impressive range of spritzes, cocktails, wines, fizz, spirits, and beers, all enjoyed against the backdrop of chilled-out tunes spun by the restaurant's resident DJs. Luciano's bar is also known for its extensive selection of premium Italian and international wines, sourced directly through Gino's hand-picked suppliers, many of which are exclusive to Luciano.

To start we decided to share the Fillet steak tartare which was perfectly seasoned and full of flavour. For the main course, the Lobster Linguine is a must-try. The al dente pasta is generously adorned with succulent lobster meat, cherry tomatoes, and a delicate saffron cream sauce, creating a symphony of flavours that is nothing short of divine. Pair it with a glass of vintage Italian wine from their extensive cellar, and you're in for a truly transcendent experience.

At Luciano, service is not merely a profession; it's an art form. The staff, attentive yet unobtrusive, ensures that every need is met with grace and precision. The sommelier is a true connoisseur, ready to guide you through the extensive wine list, while the waitstaff's knowledge of the menu is second to none. It's a seamless orchestration that enhances the overall dining experience.

Luciano by Gino D'Acampo is more than just a restaurant, from the moment you step inside, you are transported to a world of Italian elegance and gastronomic delight. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply seeking an exquisite meal, Luciano promises an unforgettable journey through the flavours of Italy.

Luciano by Gino D'Acampo

ME London Hotel

336-337 The Strand, London WC2R 1HA

www.lucianobyginodacampo.com

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