With its subtle presence, yet centrally located on High Street Kensington, Como Garden is an Italian restaurant that will transport you from the hustle and bustle of the city to a romantic Italian getaway in a heartbeat!

The interior decor, inspired by the landscape of Lake Como’s intimate gardens, brings the experience of al fresco dining among olive trees and tall hedges to London. Dining here in the evening provides the ultimate setting for a special occasion – the fairy lights and the dim centrepiece lamps bring warmth, while the cushioned seats and colourful designs on the tableware welcome you into their Italian home.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Jessica Viana | Food & Travel (@jessicaxviana)

Tapas, Italian style

The dining concept is Italian tapas. The waiter explains to us that the recommendation is three dishes per person, excluding dessert. This might seem indulgent for those familiar with the traditional style of Italian dining, however, the aim here is to provide diners with the opportunity to sample multiple dishes via smaller portion sizes. The menu features plenty of inclusive options with meat, fish and vegetable suggestions. The pasta is fresh and homemade, and the chef doesn’t try to reinvent the wheel or get pretentious – flavourful, authentic Italian recipes from various regions is what you’ll get here.

From the Antipasti menu, I must highlight the Arancini with Fontina Cheese and its surprisingly delicious sweet notes; the Truffle and Parmesan Tagliolini stand out in the pasta selection for all truffle lovers, giving you exactly what you crave – pungent and savoury, as it should be; For some veggie deliciousness, the aubergine parmigiana cannot be recommended enough – served piping hot in an oven dish, it’s sure to warm every vegetarian’s heart.

After the tapas, and because there is always room for dessert, the menu delivers. The tiramisu, an unescapable choice at any Italian venue, did not disappoint, and provided equal measures of creamy texture, coffee and cocoa flavours. Not too sweet, not too bitter – just perfect. The Como Signature Meringue Torta, however, did cause some surprise as it arrived at the table – at more than a handbreadth in height, let’s just say it would be enough for two to share, if feeling generous.

In addition to the extensive wine list, there is also a well-crafted cocktail menu including classic drinks along with other authentic combinations, featuring everyone’s favourite Italian liqueurs like Amaretto, Limoncello, Campari and Aperol.

Written by Jessica Viana – Freelance content creation, travel and promotion | @jessicaxviana

Fancy a taste of Latin America? Check out Como Garden’s sister restaurant Zuaya!

Share your thoughts in the comment box below!