Celebrated table

Motorino

A partnership between Luke Ahearne and Stevie Parle delivers refined Italian cooking across a striking Fitzrovia space recognised by the Good Food Guide.

The story

Motorino London Review: Modern Italian Dining in Fitzrovia

The Chefs and the Kitchen

Motorino serves modern Italian cuisine across a bright Fitzrovia address in London, shaped by the joint venture of Irish chef Luke Ahearne and Stevie Parle. Their shared vision places the active prep station behind a pill-shaped window, allowing diners to observe the workflow without obstructing sightlines. This transparent layout supports a methodical approach to plating and temperature control, keeping the focus squarely on ingredient quality.

Traditional Formats and Seasonal Plates

This Italian kitchen follows a structured progression that moves steadily from small bites toward generous pastas and substantial mains. Guests consistently note the house focaccia, which arrives topped with vibrant pistachio pesto, aged balsamic vinegar, and whipped butter. A curated wine collection pairs seamlessly with a compact cocktail programme featuring crisp aperitifs and dry Martinis. A quick lunch menu provides a lighter midday alternative starting at twenty-eight pounds.

Design and Gatherings

Occupying the ground floor of a mixed-use development on the former Middlesex Hospital site, the dining room balances glossy burgundy wall panels with rich timber accents. The Good Food Guide awarded the venue a Good rating in its 2026 edition, specifically highlighting how the interior feels simultaneously futuristic and comfortably retro. Three dedicated private rooms accommodate intimate gatherings of up to twelve guests. Larger celebrations utilize a single long table designed for forty diners, reflecting the straightforward approach to Italian cooking.

Recognition

Awards & accolades

2026
The Good Food Guide
Good

Details

At a glance

The Good Food Guide 2026 — Good
Cuisines Italian
Services Bar, Catering, Kids friendly, Outdoor Seating, Pets Allowed, Private Parties, Private Room, Wheelchair Access

History

On the record

2026
The Good Food Guide — Good

A collaboration between Stevie Parle (Town) and Luke Ahearne (previously of Lita), Motorino brings ‘London-Italian’ cuisine to a large space on the ground floor of a residential-retail development on the former site of the Middlesex Hospital. With glossy burgundy, yellow and wood wall panels, plus an open kitchen visible through a pill-shaped opening, the look is either ‘a touch futuristic’ or has the feel of 'a retro showroom’, depending on your viewpoint. The menu follows the classic Italian format of snacks, starters, excellent pasta, generous mains and dolci. Bring friends, and make sure you order the focaccia with pistachio pesto, a drizzle of aged balsamic, whipped butter and olive oil. We thought it was terrific. Great cocktails and a well-curated wine list that's strong on Italy and France make drinking here 'a joy', but if you're worried about a hefty bill, consider the 'quick lunch' (from £28) as an alternative point of entry.

Established

Location

Find us

1 Pearson Square, Fitzrovia, W1T 3BF
London, United Kingdom
020 3500 4221
hello@motorino.london
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Map showing Motorino