Bocca di Lupo

Restaurant | London | England | United Kingdom

Authentic Italian cuisine London

The restaurant "Bocca di Lupo" in London is a renowned Italian establishment that has captured the hearts of guests and critics alike since its opening in 2008 by chef Jacob Kenedy and his business partner Victor Hugo. Located in the vibrant Soho district, it stands for authentic regional Italian cuisine prepared with passion and care. The restaurant, whose name means "Mouth of the Wolf"—an Italian expression for "Good Luck"—has quickly established itself as one of the best addresses for Italian culinary experiences in the British capital. It combines the charm of a traditional trattoria with a touch of glamour, giving it a special place in London’s dining scene.

Best Italian restaurants Soho

The menu at "Bocca di Lupo" is a tribute to the diversity of Italy's twenty regions and is characterized by its freshness and creativity. It changes twice daily to reflect the best seasonal ingredients, underscoring its commitment to quality. Particularly noteworthy is the handmade pasta, which is prepared fresh daily—such as the Orecchiette with a vibrant green pesto made from Swiss chard, garlic, and Pecorino, which delights with its simplicity and intense flavor. The grilled pork chop, juicy and golden brown, served with sweet Datterini tomatoes and Borlotti beans, also showcases the restaurant's masterful handling of high-quality ingredients. For fish lovers, the menu features dishes like grilled mackerel with gremolata, which impresses with its freshness and zest.

Handmade pasta specialties London

Another hallmark of the restaurant is the option to order many dishes in small or large portions, promoting the shared enjoyment of food and reminiscent of the Italian tradition of gathering together. Among the small delights are the fritti Romani, crispy fried bites that are perfect for whetting the appetite. For a sweet conclusion, the house-made gelato, also available at the sister shop Gelupo across the street—especially the blood orange variety, which is often described as unforgettable—is a must-try. The wine list is another highlight: it boasts an impressive selection of Italian wines that beautifully complement the dishes, and it is appreciated by connoisseurs for its variety and quality.

Italian wines and food pairing

The atmosphere at "Bocca di Lupo" is lively and inviting. Guests can choose between seating at a long marble counter, from which they can directly view the open kitchen, and a cozy dining room in the back. The decor is stylish, with leather seating, lush floral arrangements, and artwork created by the chef’s mother, lending a personal touch to the space. The service is professional, friendly, and knowledgeable—the staff take the time to explain the origins of the dishes or provide suitable wine recommendations, enriching the overall experience.

Contact details

Web

Phone

Address
12 Archer St
W1D 7BB London

Map view

Opening hours

Sunday12:00 - 15:30
17:00 - 23:30
Monday12:00 - 15:00
17:00 - 0:00
Tuesday12:00 - 15:00
17:00 - 0:00
Wednesday12:00 - 15:00
17:00 - 0:00
Thursday12:00 - 15:00
17:00 - 0:00
Friday12:00 - 15:00
17:00 - 0:00
Saturday12:00 - 15:00
17:00 - 0:00

Reviews

2919 Reviews

Grainne Liddy
09.03.2025

Myself and my husband had an exceptional meal thank you so much. We had great help from our waitress and everything was absolutely delicious. The atmosphere in the restaurant was great and the staff were friendly and welcoming. We were treated to a glass of bubbly as it was our wedding anniversary. We will definitely back ! Thank you for a memorable night.
Jennifer Pierce
09.03.2025

I won’t bore you with the detail but the staff went out of their way to be helpful in circumstances where others would not. As ever, the food was excellent. A perfect place to go for a relaxed meal after the theatre
francesca salvati
08.03.2025

Un ottimo ristorante, il migliore italiano in cui sono stata nei miei dieci anni a Londra. Ci hanno gentilmente accolto nonostante non avessimo una prenotazione di sabato sera. Il menù è accattivante: salvia fritta, carciofi fritti e olive ascolane (tutto ottimo), vari primi e secondi di carne e di pesce. Anche i contorni davvero molto buoni (le zucchine romanesche mi hanno fatto quasi piangere per quanto erano buone!). Tutti i piatti erano ottimi, con ingredienti di qualità e cucinati in maniera semplice e gustosa. Il servizio è cortese e i prezzi sono davvero onesti. Torneremo di sicuro per provare la tagliata e i dolci!
Ignacio Solis
07.03.2025

Great place, great food and great service
Adam
07.03.2025

Loved Bocca di Lupo! Amazing food (including good vegetarian options), perfect, friendly service and recommendations. Sitting at the counter with a view of the kitchen team in action added to the buzzy atmosphere. Will be returning. Thank you!
Gino Adamo
07.03.2025

Interesting menu would go again great for theatre goers after shows or before 👍🏻
Julia Brereton
06.03.2025

We went for lunch before the theatre and had a great time. Service is friendly and helpful. Choice of dishes is excellent - something for everyone and the option of small or large plates works well. Sea bream carpaccio, fennel salami and all pastas were the stand- outs. Highly recommended.
Sara Magovern
05.03.2025

Had two delicious dinners here during a 5 night stay in London. Absolutely perfect meals both times - uncomplicated and sophisticated Italian - so well executed. Once at a table in back and other night at bar. Such a casual comfortable vibe - no attitude - despite the high minded food. Loved the pasta with muscles, the quail, the risotto. Delicious all.. So nice to have a rare Granita as an option for dessert - blood orange Granita was perfect. The staff here is just so lovely and welcoming (after we had to change our timing twice). Can’t wait to come back. Thank you Bocca Di Lupo crew!
Simon Brasse
05.03.2025

Bocca di Lupo is one of those rare restaurants that both instantly welcoming cool and serves exceptional food. Its an every occasion place and I love it. Can't recommend it enough.
Joseph Premto
05.03.2025

Great no frills Italian cuisine. Very attentive and professional service and the food was excellent. I love that next to every dish in the menu they tell you which city it comes from. Don't skip pasta! The fish was also great, but there is something for everyone.
Ilaria Cattoni
03.03.2025

Abbiamo mangiato benissimo e offrono una favolosa lista dei vini. Carciofi e salvia veramente buoni, accompagnati da un delizioso bicchiere di Amarone. Provatelo!!
Gino
03.03.2025

Menu was different but was enjoyable
R Lon
02.03.2025

Went on recommendation of friend - so went with high expectations - and they were absolutely met. Red prawn risotto was amazing, sea bream carpaccio great too as were stuffed olives, mozarella, pesto crescentine. Quail was nice but not a must and a bit picky (but then that's quail for you!)
Taz Ad
27.02.2025

Busy restaurant with very tasty and freshly made dishes. I was lucky to be sat at the counter so could see the lovely chef prepare all the dishes with care - she was excellent at it that is for sure !
B Naylor
27.02.2025

Boca di Lupo has been a firm favourite for a long time. The food is delicious, the service is excellent and the vibe is just right. I'm as happy to eat here solo or with friends. A must visit.
Nils Bellemans
26.02.2025

Extremely rushed dinner. As soon as we sat down we were asked if we were ready to order food, and then we were asked again 4-5 times by different staff. We couldn’t have 5 minutes of conversation without being interrupted and rushed. Halfway through our starters we were told the mains were ready so they started clearing our plates and cutlery meaning we couldn’t eat the remainder of our starters. Food was average, pastas bland but the steak was good.
Kay Stevens
26.02.2025

Great restaurant, great service, beautiful food, excellent wine/cocktails etc. looking forward to a return visit asap
Joan Langley
26.02.2025

Superb restaurant. We ate at the counter and witnessed the wonderful chefs at work. Great service and the fried artichoke and beef ragu were particularly delicious. Cynar to finish!
Julie Blake
26.02.2025

Bocca di Lupo never disappoints. Amazing food and service as always!
Andrew D'Ambrosi
25.02.2025

Absolutely excellent experience. Dynamite.
Martyn Harris
25.02.2025

Great find - so convenient for theatres. Super service - my special request for soft food (following dental surgery) was fully and thoughtfully considered. Food was delicious and there was a good (pre-theatre) buzz. We'll be back for sure!
Sarina Hussain
23.02.2025

I love this place! The good is fantastic, the service is always friendly and the atmosphere is good and lively.
juan corbella
22.02.2025

Perfect food. Perfect service. Great Somelier advice. Being a Soho place there is not much space and the tables are very close together. But because of the food quality and service that is more than easily forgotten.
Volkan London
22.02.2025

Amazing food,beautiful interior, friendly staff. Perfect for a date night! Place makes you feel good. Service was top notch.They take your coats away, that was a brilliant detail for me.Definitely be back.Loved it! 👌🏽
Sebastian Peterson
21.02.2025

Good food but very small portions. Overpriced in my opinion.

 

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