VIBE

Swish, sexy sophistication. Locanda Locatelli’s soft yet stylish lounge look is created through soothing neutral tones (all beiges and blue-grays) worked into velvety fabrics, plush banquettes, sexy low lighting, and even padded walls. The décor is perfectly pitched as a subdued backdrop to the flamboyant fare, flashy in-crowd guests, and bounding antics of celeb chef Giorgio Locatelli. (Not only does Locatelli really work the kitchen, he’s often found gallivanting around the dining room as well.) The spot-on service is sublime and the wine list world class.

CROWD

This is an in-crowd favorite, so watch out for A-listers galore, though the bulk of the diners are high-flying execs and starry-eyed daters.

WHAT WE WOULD WEAR

Technically it’s "upscale casual," but not in a stuffy way–we’d wear a cute, stylish dress or skirt and designer heels.

GO HERE WITH

A date; girlfriends; clients or colleagues

WHY WE LIKE IT

It’s an "it" destination with a grown-up, see-and-be-seen vibe that’s fun to be a part of. Take a gaggle of girlfriends or your date du jour for people watching and mixing with the beau monde of London.

WHAT WE WOULD CHANGE

They’re tight with time, so no lingering at your hard-won table: they’ll want to turn it around ASAP.

GOOD TO KNOW

Make sure to ask not to sit near the entrance, as those tables feel cut off from the rest of the restaurant. Locanda Locatelli is all about the vibe, so you need to make sure you’re getting your fair share of it! Also, unusual for a restaurant this particular about its food, they’re super accommodating with food allergies. (Just ask your server for more info.) Finally, bookings are absolutely essential, so definitely call as soon as possible. (If you’re booking for a group of four or more, you’ll need to give a credit card number when reserving.)

OTHER LOCATIONS

Zafferano (London)

CLOSEST COMPS

Click here for our full-form mobile travel guide, The Purple Passport to London