Il Portico: Timeless Italian Charm in Kensington
Authentic Northern Italian dining with family warmth and timeless charm in the heart of Kensington.
Il Portico is a beloved Italian restaurant located on Kensington High Street, London. Established in 1967, it offers authentic Northern Italian cuisine with a warm, family-run atmosphere. Known for its fresh pasta, traditional dishes, and a well-curated wine list, Il Portico combines a cozy dining experience with a touch of rustic elegance. The restaurant’s moderate pricing and attentive service make it a favorite for locals and visitors seeking genuine Italian flavors in a relaxed setting.
A brief summary to Il Portico
- 277 Kensington High St, London, W8 6NA, GB
- +442076026262
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2.5 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 12 pm-2:30 pm
- Tuesday 12 pm-2:30 pm
- Wednesday 12 pm-2:30 pm
- Thursday 12 pm-2:30 pm
- Friday 12 pm-2:30 pm
- Saturday 12 pm-2:30 pm
Local tips
- Reserve a table in advance, especially for weekend evenings, to secure a spot in this popular family-run restaurant.
- Try the fresh handmade pasta dishes like squid ink tagliolini or pappardelle with pork belly ragu for a true taste of Emilia Romagna.
- Enjoy a bottle of Italian wine from their curated list to complement your meal; sharing a modest bottle is cost-effective.
- If visiting in autumn, look out for game dishes sourced from the family’s Kent farm for a seasonal specialty.
- Consider dining outside during warmer months to enjoy the ambiance of Kensington High Street with outdoor heaters available.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Il Portico location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Il Portico
A Legacy of Italian Tradition in London
Il Portico has been a fixture on Kensington High Street since 1967, founded by Pino Chiavarini and now run by his children, James and Francesca. The restaurant’s roots lie deeply in the Emilia Romagna region of northern Italy, celebrated for its Parmesan cheese, Parma ham, and aged balsamic vinegar. This heritage is reflected in the menu, which features dishes crafted from ingredients imported from small producers in that region, ensuring authenticity and quality.A Menu Rich in Regional Flavors and Fresh Ingredients
The menu at Il Portico highlights classic Italian dishes with a focus on fresh, handmade pasta and seasonal produce. Signature offerings include squid ink tagliolini studded with cherry tomatoes and seafood, Kent lamb cutlets infused with herbs and Barolo wine sauce, and pork belly ragu served with perfectly textured pappardelle. The kitchen also prepares game from the family’s Kent farm during autumn, such as venison and pheasant, adding a rustic touch to the refined menu. Desserts, while occasionally uneven, include traditional options like Torta della Nonna and panna cotta, made in-house.Atmosphere and Dining Experience
Il Portico offers a cozy, inviting ambiance with a vintage charm. The dining room is simply decorated, tables are closely arranged, and the lighting is low, creating an intimate setting. A unique feature is the traditional dumb waiter, used to transport dishes from the kitchen below to the dining room, adding to the restaurant’s old-world character. The staff are attentive and friendly, contributing to the warm, family-run feel. Outdoor seating is available with heaters, making it a pleasant spot in warmer months.Wine Selection and Value
The wine list at Il Portico is thoughtfully curated, featuring notable Italian labels including Brunello di Montalcino and Tignanello. While some wines are priced above retail, the selection complements the menu well. Sharing a modest bottle typically brings the per-person cost to around £60, making it a moderate option for the quality and location. The restaurant’s pricing and service quality position it as an excellent venue for celebrations or casual dining alike.Location and Accessibility
Situated on the bustling Kensington High Street, Il Portico benefits from a central London location with easy access to public transport and local amenities. The area’s vibrant atmosphere adds to the dining experience, while the restaurant itself provides a peaceful retreat from the city’s pace. Its longstanding presence and consistent quality have made it a neighborhood favorite and a destination for Italian cuisine enthusiasts.Enduring Appeal and Cultural Significance
Il Portico’s ability to maintain its charm and culinary standards for over five decades is a testament to its dedication to authentic Italian cooking and hospitality. It stands as a cultural bridge, bringing the flavors and convivial spirit of Emilia Romagna to London. The restaurant’s family-run nature and commitment to tradition continue to draw a loyal clientele, ensuring its place as a cherished institution in the city’s dining scene.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Queen Victoria Monument
0.3 km
A majestic tribute to Queen Victoria, blending imperial grandeur with rich symbolism in the heart of London’s royal landscape.
Kensington War Memorial
0.7 km
A solemn gothic cross memorial honoring Kensington’s fallen soldiers, set beside the historic St Mary Abbots Church.
142 Cromwell Rd
0.9 km
Historic Victorian office building in prestigious South Kensington, steps from world-class museums and transport hubs.
George Orwell Plaque
1.4 km
A literary landmark on vibrant Portobello Road celebrating George Orwell’s enduring legacy in London’s cultural heart.
St Peter's Church, Notting Hill
1.6 km
A serene Victorian Anglican church blending classical architecture, rich history, and community spirit in the heart of Notting Hill.
Howard Staunton Blue Plaque
1.7 km
Commemorating Howard Staunton, 19th-century chess master and organizer of the first international chess tournament, at his London blue plaque.
37 Thurloe St
1.8 km
Historic Victorian townhouse in South Kensington's cultural heart, steps from world-class museums and the Underground.
Speke Monument
1.8 km
A Victorian obelisk in Kensington Gardens honouring explorer John Hanning Speke, who identified Lake Victoria as the source of the Nile.
Mr Mathias Winkler
1.9 km
Discover exceptional healthcare at Mr. Mathias Winkler's practice in London’s Charing Cross Hospital, where patient care meets expertise.
Béla Bartók Memorial
1.9 km
Celebrate the legacy of Béla Bartók, the Hungarian composer and ethnomusicologist, through this evocative bronze memorial in London’s South Kensington.
Space Apart Hotel
1.9 km
Modern serviced apartments in historic Kensington Gardens Square, offering stylish comfort and easy access to London’s top attractions.
HTB Onslow Square
1.9 km
Explore the beauty and community spirit of HTB Onslow Square, an iconic Anglican church in South Kensington, London, steeped in history and charity.
Lancaster Gate
2.0 km
Experience the serene beauty and rich history of Lancaster Gate, a picturesque haven in London perfect for leisurely strolls and cultural exploration.
All Saints' Church, Notting Hill
2.0 km
Explore the architectural beauty and serene atmosphere of All Saints' Church, a must-visit Anglican church and cultural hub in Notting Hill, London.
Thin House
2.0 km
Explore the unique architectural beauty of Thin House in South Kensington, a must-see tourist attraction in London showcasing history and charm.
Unmissable attractions to see
Leighton House
0.2 km
Explore the exquisite Victorian studio-home of Frederic Leighton, where art, architecture, and Orientalist design create a timeless cultural treasure.
The Tower House
0.3 km
Discover The Tower House, William Burges’ iconic Victorian Gothic Revival home, a masterpiece of architectural artistry and rich symbolism in London.
Sambourne House
0.3 km
Step into Sambourne House, a Victorian treasure showcasing the art, design, and life of Punch’s celebrated cartoonist in the heart of Kensington.
Holland Park
0.6 km
Discover Holland Park’s serene gardens, historic charm, and vibrant recreational spaces in the heart of Kensington, London.
Kyoto Garden
0.6 km
A tranquil Japanese garden in London’s Holland Park, gifted by Kyoto to celebrate cultural friendship and seasonal beauty.
Kensington High St
0.7 km
Discover Kensington High Street, a stylish London shopping street blending luxury boutiques, popular brands, gourmet dining, and cultural charm near Kensington Gardens.
Olympia Events
0.8 km
Historic Victorian architecture meets cutting-edge event spaces in London’s premier exhibition and entertainment destination.
Earl’s Court Police Box
0.9 km
Discover London’s last classic blue police box, a nostalgic landmark blending history, pop culture, and urban policing heritage at Earl’s Court.
Kensington Palace Green
1.0 km
A peaceful royal garden oasis beside Kensington Palace, blending lush greenery with centuries of British history in central London.
Пам'ятник Володимир Великий / Monument to Saint Volodomyr the Great
1.0 km
A powerful bronze tribute in London’s Holland Park honoring Saint Volodymyr, the 10th-century prince who Christianized Kievan Rus.
Notting Hill Hillgate Village
1.1 km
Discover Hillgate Village’s pastel charm, historic roots, and vibrant local life nestled in the heart of Notting Hill, London’s bohemian enclave.
Kensington Palace
1.1 km
Discover centuries of royal history and serene gardens at Kensington Palace, a majestic London landmark and former home to British monarchs.
The Gate Picturehouse
1.1 km
Discover a century-old Edwardian cinema in Notting Hill with plush interiors, indie films, and a unique cultural atmosphere.
Notting Hill Gate
1.2 km
Historic and vibrant Notting Hill Gate Underground Station links three Tube lines beneath a lively West London street.
Queen Victoria Statue
1.2 km
A majestic marble statue of Queen Victoria by her daughter, marking the birthplace and childhood home of one of Britain’s most iconic monarchs.
Essential places to dine
Il Portico
0.0 km
Authentic Northern Italian dining with family warmth and timeless charm in the heart of Kensington.
The Ivy Kensington Brasserie
0.6 km
Classic British brasserie charm meets lively Kensington atmosphere in this elegant all-day dining hotspot on High Street.
Akira Restaurant at Japan House London
0.7 km
Experience authentic Japanese elegance and exquisite omakase dining in the heart of Kensington at Akira Restaurant, Japan House London.
Dishoom Kensington
0.7 km
Experience the vibrant flavours and Art Deco charm of Bombay’s iconic Irani cafés at Dishoom Kensington, London’s stylish Indian dining destination.
Grato
0.8 km
Cozy Italian dining with handmade pasta and warm hospitality in the tranquil heart of Kensington Square, London.
Alexandrie Restaurant
0.8 km
Experience authentic Egyptian flavors and elegant dining in the heart of Kensington with Alexandrie’s refined Mediterranean cuisine.
Zuaya London
0.8 km
Discover modern Latin American cuisine with vibrant flavors, stylish ambiance, and exceptional cocktails in the heart of Kensington.
Prezzo Italian Restaurant London Kensington
0.9 km
Cozy Italian dining in the heart of Kensington with classic pasta, pizza, and family-friendly options in a stylish, relaxed setting.
Spaghetti House Italian Restaurant Kensington High Street
0.9 km
Authentic Italian flavors and cozy charm await at Spaghetti House on Kensington High Street, perfect for casual dining in central London.
The Ladbroke Arms
1.2 km
A charming gastropub in Notting Hill offering refined British cuisine, standout Sunday roasts, and a welcoming garden terrace.
The Shed
1.2 km
A rustic, family-run gem in Notting Hill serving sustainable, farm-to-table British cuisine with a warm, unpretentious atmosphere.
Core by Clare Smyth
1.6 km
Experience three-Michelin-starred modern British cuisine by Clare Smyth in an elegant Notting Hill setting, where sustainability meets culinary artistry.
Gold
1.6 km
Stylish modern European dining with wood-roasted seasonal plates and inventive cocktails on iconic Portobello Road in vibrant Notting Hill.
Town House Kensington
1.7 km
Elegant modern British dining with global influences in the heart of South Kensington, offering all-day meals and refined ambiance.
Granger and Co. Notting Hill
1.8 km
Experience vibrant Australian flavors all day in a sunny, welcoming setting at Granger and Co. Notting Hill on Westbourne Grove.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
the Design Museum Shop - High Street Shop
0.0 km
Curated design haven on Kensington High Street: books, homewares, and innovative gifts celebrating creativity from the Design Museum.
Octavia Foundation - Kensington
0.1 km
Discover designer bargains and vintage treasures at this Kensington High Street charity shop, funding life-changing support for local communities in true Octavia Hill spirit.
the Design Museum Shop
0.1 km
Curated gifts, books and design objects from the Design Museum’s High Street, Atrium and Exhibition shops—where form, craft and everyday use meet.
Oxfam Shop - Kensington High Street
0.2 km
Unearth ethical treasures on Kensington High Street at this vibrant Oxfam shop, where second-hand style funds global change amid London's posh shopping scene.
Jigsaw
0.7 km
Refined British womenswear on Kensington High Street, where timeless tailoring meets contemporary elegance in a stylish boutique haven.
London Souvenir Kensington
0.8 km
Kensington High Street's go-to for authentic London souvenirs: red buses, royal trinkets, and Union Jack delights in a shopper's paradise.
Good
0.8 km
Discover timeless designer vintage at Good, where Kensington Church Street's charm meets sustainable high fashion in a curated second-hand paradise.
Urban Outfitters
0.8 km
Trendy threads and eclectic home vibes on London's iconic Kensington High Street – Urban Outfitters delivers boho-chic shopping with a creative edge.
Kensington Palace Shop
1.1 km
Discover regal treasures at Kensington Palace Shop: fine china, jewellery, and exclusive souvenirs inspired by centuries of royal elegance in London's premier palace grounds.
Notting hill store
1.2 km
Explore Notting Hill's local convenience store, your one-stop shop for groceries, unique souvenirs, and reliable luggage storage.
The gift store
1.3 km
Discover quirky handmade crafts and Notting Hill treasures at this vibrant Pembridge Road gem, where every shelf holds a unique story from London's creative heart.
Appletree boutique
1.4 km
A small Notting Hill boutique specialising in retro‑inspired prints, colourful womenswear and standout accessories for playful, individual styling.
RETRO GIFTS RETAIL
1.5 km
Discover nostalgic treasures at Retro Gifts Retail on Portobello Road—retro charms, quirky novelties, and market magic in Notting Hill's vibrant heart.
Portobello Gifts Shop London
1.5 km
Retro souvenirs and nostalgic trinkets on Notting Hill's iconic Portobello Road—a treasure hunt for affordable London mementos amid market vibrancy.
Paul Smith - Notting Hill
1.7 km
Classic British tailoring meets playful innovation at Paul Smith's elegant Notting Hill flagship in historic Westbourne House.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Prince of Wales
0.8 km
A cosy Kensington pub of warm wood, classic pints and a surprising Thai menu tucked behind a Victorian façade.
High Spirit Cocktail Bar
0.8 km
A friendly, compact cocktail bar on Kensington High Street serving well-made classics and creative seasonal drinks in a warm, music-led setting.
The Builders Arms
0.8 km
A classic Kensington pub with cosy period character, modern British comfort food and a lively, neighbourhood atmosphere.
AMARO BAR - London
0.9 km
Elegant Kensington cocktail bar blending Savoy mastery with inventive twists, vintage rarities, and intimate speakeasy charm on High Street.
Piano Kensington
0.9 km
Live piano requests, cocktails and casual late-night bites in the Royal Garden Hotel — a music-led, relaxed Kensington night out.
The Churchill Arms, Kensington
1.0 km
London's floral-festooned pub icon: Churchill memorabilia, pioneering Thai eats, and blooming facades since 1750 in vibrant Kensington.
Stables Bar
1.0 km
Elegant Kensington cocktail haven in a former stable, blending equestrian heritage with inventive mixology and cosy conservatory vibes opposite lush gardens.
Evans & Peel Detective Agency
1.1 km
Step into a secret 1920s detective office for immersive cocktails, live jazz, and a playful mystery-solving speakeasy experience in London’s Earl’s Court.
The Curtains Up
1.2 km
A cozy West Kensington pub blending hearty British fare, lively theatre, and warm local charm for a memorable experience.
The Henderson Bar & Kitchen
1.3 km
Notting Hill's carnival-inspired bar serving twisted British classics from breakfast to cocktails on a sunny terrace—honoring Russ Henderson's legacy.
The Owl and Monkey Cocktail Bar
1.3 km
A stylish South Kensington cocktail bar blending tropical design, sustainable mixology, and warm hospitality for memorable nights.
The Sun In Splendour
1.4 km
Historic Notting Hill pub with yellow charm, hearty fare, craft pours, and a secret garden haven on bustling Portobello Road.
Bar 190
1.4 km
Experience London’s legendary rock ’n’ roll cocktail bar with classic Victorian charm and expertly crafted drinks at Bar 190.
The Hereford Arms, South Kensington
1.4 km
Victorian South Kensington pub pouring Fuller's ales, serving refined classics like cod and cottage pie amid Hitchcock charm and Ripper lore.
K Bar
1.6 km
Sophisticated South Kensington cocktail haven blending innovative mixology, gem-inspired elixirs, and plush club-like elegance for unforgettable evenings.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Ricco London
0.8 km
A plush, performance‑led lounge in Kensington Olympia where cocktails, Mediterranean sharers and cabaret create theatrical late‑night nights.
Notting Hill Arts Club
1.2 km
West London's sweaty basement cradle of music legends since '97—coffee by day, live gigs and club nights till 2am in an intimate den of funk, jazz, and raw talent.
Metric
1.5 km
A compact, collegiate nightclub beneath Imperial College’s Beit Quadrangle — lively student nights, intimate dancefloor and a campus-centred party vibe.
B London
1.7 km
Dive into South Kensington's electric nightlife at B London, where sophisticated beats and stylish crowds fuel unforgettable nights from 9pm till dawn.
Dolce Night Club , London
1.8 km
Elite VIP nightclub in South Kensington blending luxurious design, R&B beats, and high-end cocktails for unforgettable weekend revelry.
The Duke of Wellington
1.9 km
Historic Young's pub on Portobello Road: Victorian screens, market views, British roasts, and Notting Hill legends in every pint.
Electric House
1.9 km
Experience the vibrant social scene at Electric House, a chic social club in Notting Hill, London, blending style, comfort, and culinary delights.
The Globe
2.0 km
Traditional London pub by day, lively late‑night bar and club by night—large, hireable rooms and a warm, characterful interior.
Privilege Entertainment Ltd
2.3 km
Discover the pulsating nightlife at Privilege Entertainment Ltd, London's premier entertainment agency and nightclub, where unforgettable experiences await.
Lost In Disco
2.4 km
An intimate West London disco night celebrating 1970s–80s funk, soul and floor-filling classics with DJs, guest singers and a glittering dancefloor.
Subteranian
2.5 km
A compact underground club on Acklam Road delivering dense, DJ-led electronic nights with an intimate, bass-heavy atmosphere.
LUXX CLUB LONDON
4.1 km
Experience Mayfair’s premier luxury nightclub with dazzling lights, top DJs, and exclusive VIP vibes at LUXX CLUB LONDON.
Carwash Nightclub
4.1 km
Europe's longest-running disco since 1989: sequins, funk beats, and joyful dancing in Mayfair's retro heart. Join the glitter-fueled party!
Tabu London
4.2 km
Escape Mayfair's polish for Tokyo's neon-lit Shinjuku alleys at Tabu London—retro gaming vibes, caged dancers, hip-hop beats, and upscale bites fuel epic nights.
Le Fez
4.4 km
Experience Putney’s premier Moroccan-inspired nightclub with lush lounges, vibrant dancefloors, and unforgettable late-night entertainment.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Cozy
- Relaxing
- Lively
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Weekend Getaway
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
