Curated by Dylan Cormack · July 2025 · How we curate

Lupa: A Slice of Rome in Highbury

Tucked away on Highbury Park, Lupa brings the authentic flavours of Rome to North London. This intimate 28-cover restaurant, co-owned by actor Theo James and Carousel founder Ed Templeton, has quickly established itself as a neighbourhood gem serving unpretentious Roman comfort food.

Signature Dishes

Head chef Naz Hassan, formerly of Pidgin, crafts a menu that celebrates Roman culinary traditions with standout dishes including:

• Porchetta: Slow-roasted with apricot stuffing and impeccable crackling that reviewers consistently praise as "incredible" and "the best I've ever had"
• Handmade Pasta: The carbonara shines with its rich, creamy sauce and generous chunks of guanciale, while the bucatini all'amatriciana delivers bold, punchy flavours
• Stuffed Courgette Flowers: Delicately battered and filled with burrata, these have been described as "divine" and "epic"

Atmosphere and Experience

The restaurant's butter-yellow walls, wooden tables, and café curtains create an ambiance that transports diners straight to a backstreet trattoria in Rome's Trastevere district. The space may be snug, but the service is unhurried and professional, creating a warm, inviting atmosphere.

Lupa's drinks program features expertly crafted cocktails, including a potent fig leaf martini and classic negronis, alongside a focused selection of Italian wines from independent producers.

Whether you're a Highbury local or making the journey across London, Lupa offers a genuine taste of Roman hospitality with food that prioritizes bold flavours and traditional techniques.