Joining the Italian San Carlo Group is this glossy restaurant in Marylebone which occupies a coveted space just off St Christophers’ place. This addition to the 23-strong line of Italian eateries, Isola by San Carlo is a brasserie and bar that offers relaxed all day indoor and outdoor dining from midday until 'late'.
The décor is designed to be reminiscent of a grand Sicilian home, with an arresting colour palette that features candy pinks and Sicilian lemon yellows. A marble and brass bar along with coral leather chairs build on the theme, while mini lamps on every table complete the façade. The main restaurant seats up to 78 people, while the lower ground dining room can accomodate up to another 64 guests.
The outside area is the best place to soak up the restaurant’s fantastic location, which is so close yet so far from bustling Oxford Street, just a short walk away. The 50-cover alfresco terrace is laden with foliage and flowers to mimic the look and feel of an Italian garden.
Lovers of Italian food can rejoice at the array of classic dishes on the menu, many of which are also available at Isola’s sister restaurants. Discover Sardinian lamb and porchetta, Sicilian red prawns and tagliolini lobster, as well as plenty of pasta and risotto favourites. With a bowl of carbonara costing nearly £17, the food here comes with a price, while meat dishes range between £20-30. Finish with a dessert of Tiramisu, either Classico or Limone variations, or sample a lighter bite with Cannoli Sicliani – ricotta filled pastry with pistachio or chocolate.
From the impressive drinks menus, there is an extensive Italian wine list featuring local and more well-known producers, as well as plenty of classic and signature cocktails, grappa, bitters and Italian bottled brews.