Last Updated on May 21, 2024
Spagnoletti – London’s Best-Kept Pasta Secret
Certain types of restaurants attract broadsheet coverage, while others do not. Spagnoletti, located directly opposite St Pancras and King’s Cross stations, falls into the latter category. Positioned on the ground floor of the quirky and vibrant Megaro Hotel, it mostly draws in passing tourist traffic. However, Spagnoletti exceeds expectations, demonstrating impressive culinary ambition that is fully realised in its kitchen.
And to add to its allure, The Megaro Hotel recently announced the appointment of double Michelin star-winning chef Adam Simmonds as Chef Patron. Renowned as one of the UK’s top culinary talents, Adam has led some of the nation’s finest kitchens, working under Raymond Blanc at Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons before achieving his first Michelin Star Michelin star at Ynyshir Hall and later at Danesfield House. At The Megaro, he will launch a signature restaurant in late 2024, however, he has also created an exciting new sharing menu, at Spagnoletti, moving it away from its solo pasta lab concept.
Before our dinner arrangement, we paid a visit to Hokus Pokus, a funky cocktail bar situated in the basement of The Megaro Hotel, where you can immerse yourself in its 21st-century steampunk vibes with homemade botanical concoctions and fabulous craft cocktails, the perfect aperitif.
At the entrance of Spagnoletti’s, located on the busy Euston Road, a yellow telephone box sets the tone for a playful atmosphere. The contemporary decor features white tile walls, bright yellow industrial piping, and a bustling open kitchen. The space is bright and airy, with a speckled stone floor, and yellow lava lamps adorning the walls adding to the lively, postmodern feel.
On arrival at Spagnoletti, it was buzzing, and we were more than ready to tuck into some of the delicious dishes on offer. First, a very welcome loaf of freshly baked rustic black charcoal bread, sweet and light, served with an olive oil dip.
We chose to enjoy sharing plates, so we ordered a selection of dishes that came out as they were ready. First, Arancini, coated with a crisp charcoal-burnt crumb, stuffed with wild mushrooms and truffle. The charcoal crumb gave it a dry texture, perfectly balanced by the creamy goat’s cheese and truffle dip.
One of my favourite dishes of the evening was one that Adam has brought to the menu and captures the essence of summer – La Latteria Burrata with fresh peas, broad beans, coriander, and truffle, accompanied by a wonderfully tart lemony dressing. Seriously I could eat this dish every day!
Next, we tried the cured salmon with asparagus and olive oil. The salmon was thick-cut and of excellent quality, complemented by the crisp snap of fresh asparagus. The Agnolotti with guanciale and cured meat sauce, was filled with pecorino. The richness of the meat sauce and the creamy pecorino filling made this pasta dish a standout.
The open ravioli of scallops, morels, wild garlic, and ginger was making its debut on the menu the day of our visit and was absolutely divine! The silky ravioli paired beautifully with the vegetal and seafood flavours.
The grilled octopus with salmoriglio sauce was another highlight. The charred octopus was perfectly cooked, offering a tender yet smoky flavour. On the side a bitter leaves salad with crispy anchovies and pomegranate. The salty anchovies balanced well with the sweet and sour notes of the pomegranate, making for a refreshing accompaniment.
We washed it all down with a bottle of Catarratto Bianco Biologico, Fabrizio Vella, Sicily, 2022. It featured citrus blossom notes, a hint of herbs, and lovely minerality.
And finally, we enjoyed another of Adam’s creations – an orange polenta cake with bitter orange curd and cardamom ice cream. The cake, was not too sweet, with grainy polenta drenched in orange with a hint of cardamom. We paired this delightful dessert with Disaronno Amaretto.
I’m almost inclined to believe I’ve stumbled upon a well-kept secret at Spagnoletti. Their menu boasts truly exceptional offerings, with pasta that easily competes with London’s renowned spots like Padella and Lina Stores. What’s more, Spagnoletti presents the added advantage of a much broader menu, all offered at remarkably reasonable prices. I’m already planning a return visit with my family next month.
Located in The Megaro Hotel
Spagnoletti
27 Euston Rd.,
London NW1 2SD
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