Knightsbridge has long been a hub for lavish tastes. As a result, many world-famous chefs have set up shop here. So much so in fact, that there are probably more Michelin-starred restaurants than Prets. What the area could use, however, is a few more neighbourhood restaurants. Enter: Cicchetti, by the San Carlo group.
Despite what the pared-back exterior might imply, Cicchetti’s interiors are stunning. The art deco space is brimming with polished marble, eye-catching paintings and enormous palms, all doubled up in the mirrored ceiling. The menu, meanwhile, offers diners a huge range of small plates, along with an expansive selection of Italian wines and Mediterranean cocktails.
This is a restaurant that prides itself on simplicity, so we followed suit, starting with oysters and a classic mignonette. Paired with a glass of bubbly, they perfectly matched the setting. From there, the simplicity continued with tuna tartare and beef carpaccio. Both came with rocket, as well as lemon for the tuna and Parmesan for the beef. Despite these additions, both could have done with a boost in the seasoning department.
The lobster ravioli came next, accompanied by an excellent Puglian Fiano. While the pasta was silky, and the sauce deliciously fresh, the dish was held back by the dry filling. The black salt-baked sea bass fillet, however, was much better, packed with flavour and further enhanced by lashings of salmoriglio.
We finished with a tiramisu, bearing the same monogram as the plates, but in cocoa powder. While a little on the firm side, it still hit all the right notes, served with a cheeky shot of marsala. At around £65 a head including drinks and service, we could have left a little more satisfied. That being said, we’re sure that the stunning interiors and excellent service will keep Cicchetti just as busy as its sisters.