Circolo Popolare

The room

The setting is the reason many people come. Bottles of vintage spirits and wine cover the walls, and a long Mediterranean-style table runs through the space, so it feels loud and celebratory rather than intimate. If you want a quieter meal, lunch is calmer. Lighting is low and the room is busy, so it works best for celebrations and group dinners.

What to order

Wood-fired Neapolitan pizzas can be ordered half-and-half, which helps with sharing. Fresh pasta is made in-house, and the carbonara is tossed in a pecorino wheel at the table. Start with burrata or sharing antipasti; there are grilled meats and desserts too. On weekdays the Pranzetto set lunch is a good-value way to try it. Portions are generous, so sharing a few plates across the table is a sensible way to order.

Booking

Reservations are online only, open at 9am and are released about a month ahead; tables take up to eight. Walk-ins are accepted but space is limited, and a no-show fee may apply. Larger group menus are available for celebrations. The British Museum is about ten minutes' walk east, making this a handy lunch stop. Gift vouchers can be used across the group's London trattorias.

Highlights

• Run by the Big Mamma group
• Around 20,000 bottles lining the walls
• Wood-fired Neapolitan pizza, half-and-half available
• Carbonara finished in a pecorino wheel
• Weekday Pranzetto set lunch

Good to know

• Bookings are online only, released about a month ahead at 9am.
• Tables are for up to eight; larger groups use set menus.
• A no-show fee may apply.

Frequently asked questions