Our Story

A passion for authentic Italian cuisine spanning three generations

La Famiglia Rossi

Villa Italiana began as a dream shared by Nonna Maria Rossi, who arrived in London from Sicily in 1987 with nothing but her family recipes and an unwavering passion for authentic Italian cuisine.

What started as a small trattoria in Covent Garden has blossomed into one of London's most beloved Italian restaurants. Three generations of the Rossi family have worked tirelessly to preserve the authentic flavors of Italy while embracing the multicultural spirit of London.

Today, under the guidance of Chef Giuseppe Rossi (Nonna Maria's grandson), Villa Italiana continues to honor traditional Italian cooking methods while incorporating the finest local British ingredients. Every dish tells a story of heritage, passion, and the timeless art of Italian hospitality.

Italian chef preparing pasta

Our Values

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Fresh Ingredients

We source the finest ingredients daily, from San Marzano tomatoes to freshly caught Mediterranean seafood, ensuring every dish bursts with authentic flavors.

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Traditional Methods

Our chefs follow time-honored techniques passed down through generations, from hand-rolling pasta to slow-simmering our signature ragu for 12 hours.

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Family Hospitality

Every guest is treated like family at Villa Italiana. We believe that great food shared with loved ones creates the most memorable experiences.

Chef Giuseppe Rossi

Meet Chef Giuseppe

Third-generation owner and head chef, Giuseppe trained in Michelin-starred kitchens across Italy before returning to London to honor his family's legacy.

"Cooking is not just about feeding people – it's about creating memories, sharing culture, and bringing families together around the dinner table. Every dish we serve carries the soul of Italy and the warmth of our famiglia."

Achievements:

  • Trained at Le Cordon Bleu, London
  • Worked at Osteria Francescana, Modena
  • Winner - Best Italian Restaurant London 2023
  • Featured in Taste of London Magazine

Recognition & Awards

2023

Best Italian Restaurant

Time Out London

2022

Certificate of Excellence

TripAdvisor

2021

Authentic Cuisine Award

London Restaurant Guide