Restaurant of the Month: Osteria del Mare.
Inspired by Italy’s rich coastal traditions, Osteria Del Mare brings an authentic Italian seafood experience to the heart of Covent Garden.
Nestled on The Strand in Central London, this sophisticated and contemporary restaurant is the latest offering from the acclaimed Bocconcino Restaurant group, renowned for its excellence in Italian cuisine.
Upon entry, the sight of the impressive seafood station, featuring an array of fresh seafood options of unparalleled quality, is the first indication that Chef Matteo Massafra and his talented team are serious about their craft. Osteria Del Mare serves hearty, classic Italian seafood dishes in elegant yet understated surroundings. Muted neutrals, lofty ceilings, glass walls, maritime touches, and stone accents provide all the refinement one would expect of a central London dining establishment, and the menu is equally generous.
In true Italian tradition, we began with antipasti, choosing the Yellowfin tuna crudo with ponzu dressing. The tuna was as smooth as velvet, and the dressing, with its sharp tang, was a perfect prelude to the excellence that followed. The tiger prawn tempura, golden and perfectly fried with a uniform colour and a crisp coating, had a satisfying crunch that could only be described as a prawn-based nirvana.
A fresh Mediterranean salad, composed of Tropea onions, feta, olives, and olive oil, was a triumphant display of the power of simple, high-quality ingredients used well. The Maldon oysters, served ice-cold, offered a delicious briny creaminess that was irresistible.
A shareable linguine dish, featuring squid, scampi, mussels, and tomatoes, came highly recommended by the staff and did not disappoint. Its pronounced ruggedness and simplicity transported me to summertime lunches by the beach along the Italian coastline. The undisputed star of the meal was the octopus, tender and milky within but lightly charred on the outside, accompanied by outstanding confit potatoes and crispy cavolo nero—a triple hit of deliciousness that deserved a standing ovation.
All of this was accompanied by a glass of Miravel, Costes de Provence, a delicate, fresh, and easy-to-drink rosé that danced on the tongue and beautifully complemented the dishes.
For the final act, we opted for the hazelnut chocolate choux, and for a truly memorable finish, nothing could beat the gigantic wedge of vanilla cake with meringue. While it may not have golden, sandy beaches outside, Osteria Del Mare is your best bet for experiencing the luxury of the Italian seaside right in the heart of London.
Reservations here: https://bocconcinorestaurant.co.uk/osteriadelmare#open