If you’re constantly on the lookout for the most stunning restaurants to dine in, then we’ve found just the new spot for you. (Well, we’ve actually got a whole bunch of them in our guide to London’s prettiest restaurants…) Chef Giorgio Locatelli is teaming up with his wife, Plaxy, to open a new restaurant in the National Gallery. And it just might be a contender for London’s most picturesque restaurant – literally!
The new restaurant, ‘Locatelli’, will open in the Sainsbury Wing of the National Gallery this May. The restaurant will be joined by ‘Bar Giorgio’, an espresso bar where gallery-goers can stop for a “proper Italian coffee and Giorgio’s sweet and savory maritozzi menu”.
The new openings mark the next chapter in the Locatelli story, following the closure of the acclaimed Michelin-starred Locanda Locatelli in December last year. They will also usher in the re-opening of the National Gallery’s Sainsbury Wing, which has been undergoing a “two-and-a-half-year transformational Bicentenary project”. The wing will reopen, with the restaurant on the mezzanine level and Bar Giorgio on the ground floor, on May 10.
Locatelli
Giorgio and Plaxy have partnered with Searcy’s to open the new sites. Across the menu and decor, they’ve drawn inspiration from the new surroundings and, in particular, the works of Caravaggio. The menu at ‘Locatelli’ will focus on Italian classics and Giorgio’s signature seasonal dishes, which have made him one of the world’s most respected Italian chefs.
Food will range from antipasti to the likes of Braised veal ravioli with parsley gremolata and Parmigiano Reggiano sauce. Other options include Roast chicken alla cacciatora and Roast ribeye steak, as well as Italian-inspired dolci (or desserts). Which, yes, of course, means there will be a stonking Tiramisu up for grabs.
The menu will also feature an all-Italian wine and drinks menu. Expect wines from the likes of “Broglia, the oldest vineyard in Gavi… and Ca’ del Bosco, one of the largest producers of traditional method sparkling wine in the historical region of Franciacorta.”
Image: @moganobylocatelli, @giorgiolocatelli1, @locandalocatelli, via IG
Speaking of the opening, Giorgio said:
“Opening Locatelli at The National Gallery is an extraordinary moment for Plaxy and I, and such an honour for the next chapter in our culinary journey to be housed in such a landmark space; surrounded by history and creativity, where great paintings of the past inspire new ideas for our future.
“Caravaggio has always been such a huge inspiration for me, and so to cook under the gaze of his work is a dream come true. His dramatic use of light and shadow resonate strongly within this setting, and we are excited to bring that same boldness and authenticity to our menu.”
Bar Giorgio
But sometimes you don’t need a full meal. Maybe you just need a delicious coffee and a sweet treat to perk you up. In which case, Bar Giorgio is perfectly suited. The casual espresso bar brings a taste of Italian coffee culture to gallery visitors and passers-by.
Expect delicious sweet and savoury takes on the classic Roman pastry, maritozzi. Fillings will range from ricotta cheese and sliced salami to olive tapenade, avocado and tomato. Or you can opt for the classic “Chantilly cream-filled bun with a choice of chocolate, pistachio or classic custard”.
Locatelli and Bar Giorgio open at the National Gallery on May 10, 2025. Find out more here.