Emilia’s Crafted Pasta Opens in Victoria

Tucked just moments from Victoria Station and right by Nova Victoria’s line-up of great shops, Emilia’s Crafted Pasta feels perfectly placed for the neighbourhood. It’s the kind of restaurant you can pop into after work, settle into after an afternoon of shopping, or choose for a relaxed midweek dinner when you want something comforting but well executed and fresh.

This Victoria opening is Emilia’s fifth – and their biggest yet – with space for around 100 guests spread across two floors. The interiors are warm and inviting, with natural tones, soft lighting and large windows that look out onto the buzz of Victoria Street. One of my favourite touches is the open counter where you can watch the team making pasta fresh on site. All of it is prepared daily using natural ingredients, and there’s something reassuring about seeing that level of care firsthand.

We began with a creamy burrata paired with heritage tomatoes, and it was a simple but standout start. The burrata was beautifully soft and rich, while the tomatoes were sweet and full of flavour. It was fresh, balanced and exactly what you hope for from an Italian kitchen that lets quality ingredients speak for themselves.

For mains, we couldn’t resist the truffled cacio e pepe. The pasta had the perfect bite, and the sauce coated every twist and curve, delivering that classic combination of sharp pecorino and cracked black pepper, lifted with an indulgent hint of truffle. Delish!

The Sustainably Sourced Yellowfin Tuna Puttanesca was equally impressive. The combination of tomatoes, olives and capers brought a punchy, savoury depth, while the tuna added richness and substance. It was vibrant and full of character, with each element working harmoniously together. You can tell real thought goes into pairing the right pasta shapes with the right sauces, ensuring every mouthful is packed with flavour.

Dessert was an easy decision. The tiramisu is an absolute must-order. Light yet luscious, delicately soaked in coffee and layered with creamy mascarpone, it strikes the perfect balance between sweetness and bitterness. It’s the kind of pudding you end up thinking about long after you’ve left.

A lovely surprise, especially for weeknights, is their non-alcoholic Aperol Spritz. It genuinely tastes like the real thing – bittersweet, citrusy and refreshing – making it ideal when you want the full aperitivo experience without the alcohol.

What stands out most about Emilia’s is the atmosphere. Despite its size, it manages to feel welcoming and relaxed. Whether you’re sitting at the chef’s counter watching the pasta being shaped or tucked away at a table with friends, there’s an easy charm to the place.

In a busy part of London that can often feel rushed, Emilia’s offers a chance to slow down and enjoy thoughtfully prepared food in a stylish but comfortable setting. Fresh pasta made on site, bold Italian flavours and a location that couldn’t be more convenient, it’s a brilliant addition to Victoria and somewhere I’ll happily return to.

Find out more > www.emiliaspasta.com