There is no denying it Italian tapas are a big business in London right now. Last year saw an influx of openings and now even the chains are jumping on the band wagon and offering sharing dishes.
Assaggini located on Haymarket is doing just that, offering small Italian dishes which are served as and when they are ready, to share. Located in an old bank building the decor is bright, modern and slightly quirky, the menu is written on paper table mats, bread is served in a tin and the staff are efficient and friendly.
Drinks wise there is a fairly decent list, to start we’d recommend a classic Italian spritz with Campari or Aperol followed by a mojito made with prosecco only £5.50 – we like! For food the Handmade Ravioli with Scampi is a winner, even with the creamy pasta sauce the scampi flavour shines through – order the bigger portion as four pieces to share just isn’t enough. The pizzettine’s are decent fresh mini pizzas with various topping choices. The King Prawns are big, juicy prawns cooked to perfection, the only grumble we had was the price tag of £6 for just two prawns.
Chicken and pecorino cheese, Sweet potato fritter, Zucchini fritti and a Tomato and Red Onion salad completed our order. The dishes are all well flavoured, well cooked and easy to eat. Again the only grumble was the size of the tomato and red onion salad which was just a little too small.
The dessert menu is short and sweet, Cheesecake with fresh berries and Tiramisù were a pleasant end to the meal, served in dinky glass wear they were good value clocking in at £2.50. After two fresh coffees we were ready to go. Assaggini is a great place for a girlie catch up over wine and nibbles or for a quick snack at lunch or dinner. The kind of place we expect to see rolled out on high streets soon….
Assaggini, 71 Haymarket, SW1Y
assaggini.co.uk