Green, white and Italian through and through, Lina Stores have brought their much-loved small plates and kitsch decor to the streets of Shoreditch. A long-standing Soho institution since 1944, Lina Stores have transformed from a tiny Brewer Street deli to one of the city's most popular spots for proper Italian grub. The Shoreditch location will be their eighth restaurant in London, joining their list that spans Kings Cross to Clapham. The appeal stretches beyond the UK though, with a location in Japan as well.
The Shoreditch restaurant will be housed in a building that mirrors the brand's rich history. Dating back to 1868, the grade II listed building once served as a bank. Making use of the locations past, the former vault beneath the restaurant will now be home to the second iteration of Bar Lina. The underground bar follows the Italian tradition of aperitivo, a pre-dinner drink and snack. We recommend you embrace the culture and pop down for a negroni and arancino before you begin your meal. The menu highlights Italian liqueurs in creative cocktails, the bloody martini made with tomato water is certainly one to try.
Upstairs, in the main restaurant, you will find delicious Italian dishes being served up at all hours of the day. Grab a seat at one of their marble-top booths and start your day with a luxurious plate of scrambled eggs topped with truffle. The main menu will feature a combination of Lina Store’s most popular dishes, as well as some plates exclusively available at this location. Vegetarians will be delighted to hear of the new grilled hispi cabbage dish, served with porcini butter, pine nuts, Grana Padano and black truffle, while the meat eaters can sample the luganega sausage with spring greens, chilli and garlic. Make sure to save space on the table for the tagliolini al tartufo, a fan favourite of 30-egg yolk tagliolini with black truffle butter and parmesan.
The location is also home to a private dining space. With room for 12 guests, this is the perfect spot for an intimate birthday dinner, or a dinner party where delicious food is guaranteed. Dine beneath an original skylight window, discreetly tucked away from the rest of the restaurant by vintage timber panels for a truly private dining experience.