Pollini at Ladbroke Hall: Italian Excellence in a Historic Setting

Nestled within the magnificent Grade II-listed Ladbroke Hall in North Kensington, Pollini offers an extraordinary Italian dining experience that harmoniously blends culinary artistry with architectural splendor. Led by acclaimed Chef Emanuele Pollini, this restaurant has quickly established itself as one of London's premier Italian dining destinations, earning prestigious accolades including the Gambero Rosso Three Fork Award for Top Italian Restaurant.

A Spectacular Setting

The restaurant occupies a breathtaking space within what was once the first purpose-built car factory in Britain, dating back to 1903. The Beaux-Arts architectural style features soaring vaulted ceilings, grand pillars, and vast arched windows that create an atmosphere of refined elegance. Contemporary art installations, including a stunning centerpiece chandelier designed by Nacho Carbonell, complement the historic architecture, creating a truly unique dining environment.

Signature Dishes Worth Discovering

Chef Pollini, who hails from northern Italy's Emilia-Romagna region, brings authentic regional flavors to North London with meticulous attention to detail. The menu follows traditional Italian format with stuzzichini, antipasti, primi, and secondi, showcasing seasonal ingredients of exceptional quality.

Visitors consistently praise the crab linguine as "likely the best you will ever have," while the tagliatelle all'anatra (duck ragù) offers a taste of Chef Pollini's homeland. Don't miss the mortadella e tartufo nero served on a tapioca crisp—a delightful modern interpretation of classic Italian flavors. For dessert, the tiramisu receives particular acclaim for its perfect balance of flavors.

A Complete Experience

The restaurant is complemented by a 12,500 sq ft garden designed by Chelsea Flower Show winner Luciano Giubbilei, offering al fresco dining during warmer months. The bar serves innovative cocktails like the 'Crystallised Mary'—a clarified Bloody Mary made with tomato-infused vodka.

On Friday evenings, the restaurant hosts jazz nights, adding another dimension to the dining experience. With attentive service that includes staff who enthusiastically share both menu recommendations and the fascinating history of the venue, Pollini delivers a comprehensive dining experience that celebrates Italian culinary tradition within one of London's most distinctive architectural spaces.