Pop Sapori review

If you were gazing across the road from Kings Cross station, you’d be hard pressed to miss the outlandish mural gracing the facade of the Georgian Megaro Hotel. We headed there for dinner whilst staying at their sister hotel The Gyle, and, although poles apart in style and atmosphere, the one word that would connect the two establishments is eclectic. 

The expressive, brightly coloured geometric shapes of the exterior, by Agents of Change, are almost a clue to the 80s inspired vibes of Pop Sapori, the Megaro’s restaurant. The classic house tunes from the era are supported by the acid house yellow and the occasional industrial element.

Garden walls, prosecco and zesty spritzes, and a full Italian menu make you question if you’re partying in Manchester’s legendary Hacienda or the Italian riviera.  Well, why not have the best of both worlds.

As you would imagine with any self respecting Italian kitchen, the ingredients are seasonal, good quality and feel home made.  There are familiar staples of crispy yet creamy Aranchini balls made with salty fried cod that melt in your mouth to charred broccoli with a zesty, lemondy crumb. 

Choose the bold, dark yet not too heavy squid ink spaghetti with crab and tomato for a spot of drama. Gluten free gnocchi and candied walnuts or vegan courgette flower and saffron risotto cater for some food intolerances.

Dessert is classic and limited to Tiramisu or baked amaretti and apricot cheesecake. The Tiramisu’s espresso soaked ladyfingers lurk underneath the surface of a velvety mascarpone cream. Enjoy digging for them like a culinary tombola. 

Kings Cross has, over recent months, morphed from a bustling transport hub to a quiet station. Its iconic arched windows almost like saddened eyes anticipating the return of it’s commuters. Pop Sapori may just be the injection of energy the area needs. Head down there now for dinner, weekend brunch or even just to sip an aperol spritz whilst listening to those 80s house classics.