Daphne's, a taste of chic Italia in London

There are rare occasions in which I think of specifically going to South Kensington to have lunch. Going to Daphne’s on Brompton Road is the exception.

Daphne is not only great because of its exceptional Italian cuisine, but because of its clientele, the ambiance and savoir vivre that the restaurant exhumes. A step into this venue transports you into a whole new world. One where seasonal Italian cooking reigns, and happy people shine.

As we walk into the restaurant we are faced with an old-school counter, black and white suited cocktail makers saluting our entrance and welcoming us to a glass of bubbly before lunch. To deny such treat would be rude.

As we swiftly move rooms to grab lunch, we are pointed to the conservatory. A special room with such glass work that you feel you are in Sicilian sunshine, when in fact, you are only meters away from the V&A.

Lunch is served, and it’s a parade of salty, rich, and sensory dishes. There is no right or wrong at Daphne’s, as most dishes are seasonal and fresh. But if I were to suggest something, I would say keep it simple. This is not a place to share. Get your starter, get your primi and or secondi, perhaps share dessert, though you may not want to :)

Last time we visited, we loved the spaghetti alle vongole, and the melanzane alla parmigianna and they were both delicious. For desert, tiramisu. We don’t want our lengthy lunch to finish and when the bill comes, we are already thinking about when to return.

HOW MUCH PER PERSON? Around 50 GBP including a carafe of wine

WHERE IS IT? 112 Draycott Ave, London SW3 3AE

WHEN TO GO? Any day of the week from breakfast (8.30AM) til dinner time (10PM), with the exception of Sundays when they only open 1-5PM