L'ulivo Restuarant in City of London, Westminster

This restaurant is closed permanently I will miss you guys so much

Brilliant service in a fun setting with very delicious pasta at affordable prices! Loved the calamari, the gnocchi and a beautiful salad! The olive oil is absolutely the best!

Really good cafe! I really hope they reopen at some point.

A Sunday Lunch Worth Waiting For! No one has ever anticipated a Sunday lunch more than me! I first met Simonetta, the proprietor of Ida, nearly a year ago while swimming. I’d already heard about the restaurant, and when I discovered Simonetta was also a novelist, I pre-ordered her book Ida at My Table right away. During a long recovery, I read it cover to cover—reliving the story of her family and the restaurant in beautifully descriptive prose. I felt as though I’d already met everyone before even stepping foot inside. Not long after the book launch, I attended a reading with my friend Adam where we finally met the real-life characters. Since then, I’d been dreaming of a meal curated by Simonetta and her husband Avi. Life got in the way, and I also wanted to wait until Adam—who was observing Ramadan—could join. So we held off just a little longer. When we finally arrived, the day couldn’t have been more perfect. Sunlight poured through the large windows, filtering through shelves lined with bottles, casting a warm, inviting glow across the room. It felt immediately comforting. Having a proper chat with Avi and seeing Simonetta in her “castle” was a joy in itself. We were treated like royalty—but it’s clear everyone who walks through those doors receives the same heartfelt hospitality. The food exceeded expectations. Everything—from the antipasti to the handmade pasta—was clearly made with love and care. I had the tagliatelle al ragù, but we shared and tasted all the dishes. The food was rich yet wholesome, flavourful, and deeply satisfying. Each dish felt like something made at home by someone who truly cares. Ida’s whole team are exceptional. Yes, I’m biased. But if you’ve read the book, met the family, or simply appreciate a meal made from the heart, you’ll understand. This wasn’t just lunch. It was a story brought to life.

You must go! Cannot recommend the staff and food enough. The quality is excellent and the pricing is very reasonable. The staff were incredibly informative, attentive and very entertaining. The chefs were all friendly and genuinely seemed passionate when creating and serving the food. Great job guys. A thoroughly enjoyed meal!