'Manicomio' is Italian for madhouse, and this site on auspicious Duke of York Square started life as a royal military asylum. These days, it's an altogether friendlier place that pulls in the crowds thanks to its spectacular all-weather terrace (complete with a glazed canopy and under-floor heating).

One half of the set-up is a thriving café-cum-deli serving bruschetta, salads and other casual offerings (the owners also set out a market stall every Saturday). Next door is the main restaurant, a capacious room fitted out with fine oak floors, red leather seating, a granite bar and an original fireplace.

The food is rooted in traditional 'cucina' and the kitchen draws heavily on specially imported seasonal ingredients for a menu that looks refreshingly appetising and slightly out-of-the-ordinary. Antipasti include warm octopus salad with bologna potatoes, lime leaves, chilli and capers, while pasta might feature pumpkin and Ricotta tortelli with sage and Amaretto butter or chestnut tagliatelle with turkey and cotechino ragù. Main courses of monkfish 'osso buco' with fregola or tangerine and thyme-stuffed partridge might precede nougat semifreddo with winter berries or pear tart with liquorice ice cream. A second branch is now open at 6 Gutter Lane, EC2.

Manicomio is also featured in: Michelin Guide, Good Food Guide, Hardens, AA Guide

Rate this Restaurant

Italian

Tom Salt

Lunch: 12.00 - 2.45pm (12.00 - 3.45pm Sat-Sun)
Dinner: 6.00 - 10.15pm (6.00 - 9.45pm Sun)

Visa, Master Card, American Express

Book Now

Online booking is available with our bookings partner.

Bookings are confirmed instantly by email.

• Alfresco dining
• Disabled access
• Private dining room
• Private parties
• Vegetarian menu
• 170 covers
• Family Friendly

Nearest tube station: Sloane Square