Although Lower Marsh has only recently been in the limelight for its indie cafes and quirky vibe, La Barca has been around for the last three decades Tucked away right at the end of the lane, its rather traditional and unassuming exteriors make it easy to miss. It doesn’t help that it’s located across the colourful Cubana that is constantly buzzing with loud music.
![Zomato]( "Recensione")
When a cuisine has been commoditised to the extent that Italian has in London, one is often skeptical about restaurants that profess authenticity. Luckily for La Barca, this label is not one they need to justify. Its owners hail from the quaint town of Lucca, and the standalone restaurant has remained in the family for generations. The waiter recommends the red wine from Montepulciano, which rings a bell from an earlier trip to Tuscany.
The white tablecloths and dark wooden walls evoke nostalgia from the Italian restaurants that my family and I frequented in my childhood. The dishes are definitely pricier, but for two hungry souls at 11 PM, there’s little scope to be choosy. The wine arrives and it’s well worth its price.
We settle on the Insalata Tricolore as antipasti, and the Pulcino alla diavola, which is in the Carne section, for our mains.
The starters are an interesting twist on the Caprese, housing fresh mozzarella, avocadoes, tomatoes and rocket leaves. Balsamic vinegar and olive oil are generously splashed on, because when in Rome. I’ll admit that the dish is uncharacteristic of my usual order choices, since it's fairly standard, but tonight the fresh flavours and light ingredients are appreciated. The chicken too is succulent, and the balance of herbs and chilies makes for a perky sauce.
For one who is looking for an authentic and traditional Italian dining experience, I would definitely suggest this place. As for myself, it was late night hunger pangs that accidentally brought me here, but I have to admit I was pleasantly surprised.
They are THE BEST!! I was traveling to London and stay around waterloo,i found this restaurant on my way back to the hotel.we are hungry and i decided to look up zomato and i found this restaurant.from outside it doesn't look promising tho but i fell in love with their food and decided to make a second fisit
Choosing restaurants to take your parents to is tricky. Especially when you’ve got the added parameters of having to be finished by 7pm and be near Waterloo so we could make it to the Old Vic in time to see The Cherry Orchard. A spot of research on Twitte
This is our favourite Italian in London so far. Excellent food, wine and good service. We enjoyed having lunch here will come back as we live locally. There is £2 coverage charge/person but you get good bread, bread sticks and nice Olives, also great olive oil and Balsamic vinegar.
Everything was amazing from start to finish! The staff were accommodating, friendly and warm. The linen was crisp and lavs clean. The food was absolutely divine and just the best meal I had in London 😉 I was there on a business trip and the whole team loved it
The food, the service, everything was absolutely amazing. The Tagliatelle Carbonara was one of the best I’ve had outside of Italy. The waiters were fantastic, so accommodating and made sure we had a great experience.
Wonderful birthday dinner spent at this restaurant. They easily accommodated a group of 11 guests. Given its rating, we were pleased that the food quality met our already high expectations. The pasta portions are also on the generous side. The staff were attentive throughout the evening and eager to impress. The location, just several minutes walk to Waterloo Station was convenient for all. Would love to visit again to sample more of the menu! Would highly recommend the duck and mushroom pasta, but you can't go wrong with any!
Very traditional old school - that's good - Italian white table cloth restaurant with an extensive wine list, lovely terrace seating and moderate prices. Very close to Waterloo Station. Extremely enjoyable. PS - the fish is great.
Old school Italian restaurant - almost 50 years old - close to Waterloo Station. I’ve eaten here a few times and never been disappointed by the food or service. The chicken liver pate starter was delicious and generous in size - could have been a small main dish (or shared starter). Linguine Vongole was spot on - lots of clams, garlic and herbs. Finished with a Tiramisu because when you’re eating at an old school Italian restaurant you have too! House wines are a good value choice - especially as the menu is surprisingly expensive! I will, of course, be back.
I really like it!
Tested for dinner and as Italian I remained very satisfied. Menu has wide offer of topical Italian dishes. I've Tryed fish which was well presented and delicious.
Pleasant ambient and relaxing atmosphere. Welcoming and kind staff.
Very suggested.
Good job guys.
I'll be back at next occasion 😉
Last week, I went to a restaurant with some colleagues. If you want to taste authentic Italian food, I highly recommend this restaurant. Additionally, the staff is friendly and helpful. Overall, I had a great experience.
This is London, but I felt as if I was in Italy. All the food and service was good. Era così delizioso!
Very good Italian food
Excellent quality
Good service
Try the butterfly shrimps !
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