Da Mario Kensington
Restaurant | London | England | United Kingdom
Italian restaurant in London
"Da Mario Kensington" is a traditional Italian restaurant in London that has been a family-run business for over 50 years, earning a solid reputation in the upscale area of Kensington. It was founded by Mario Molino, a pioneer who played a significant role in popularizing pizza in the UK—among other achievements, he was a co-founder of the famous Pizza Express chain in the 1960s. Today, the restaurant is run by his son Marco, who continues the family tradition, focusing on authentic Neapolitan cuisine. The establishment is not only popular with locals but also has a prominent history: it was a favorite spot of the late Princess Diana, who often dined here with her sons William and Harry, giving the restaurant a special reputation.
Authentic Neapolitan cuisine experience
The atmosphere at "Da Mario Kensington" is lively and inviting, with a touch of rustic charm enhanced by the architecture of the building—an impressive example of Venetian Gothic style originally built in the 18th century for Queen Victoria. The restaurant spans two floors, with the lower area offering a cozy, almost homely vibe, while the upper area is often bustling with activity. A small outdoor terrace complements the interior, inviting guests to linger on nice days. The decor is simple yet warm, focusing on functionality and comfort, making the venue ideal for families, groups, or visitors looking to enjoy a meal before or after an event at the nearby Royal Albert Hall.
Family-friendly restaurant in Kensington
Culinarily, "Da Mario Kensington" represents authentic Italian cuisine with an emphasis on Neapolitan classics. The pizzas are baked in a traditional wood-fired oven, with the "Quattro Stagioni" particularly standing out—a perfect combination of artichokes, ham, mushrooms, and olives on a crispy crust that still retains the typical Neapolitan lightness. Equally popular is the "Salsiccia Friarelli," a pizza topped with Italian sausage and wild broccoli, impressing with its spicy and fresh flavors. The pasta dishes are also highlights, such as the "Spaghetti Aglio Olio e Pomodori," which showcases the quality of the ingredients with its simple yet intense blend of garlic, olive oil, and fresh tomatoes. To sweeten the meal, the homemade tiramisu entices many guests with its creamy texture and perfect balance of coffee and mascarpone.
Pizza baked in traditional oven
The restaurant places great importance on the origin of its ingredients, many of which are imported directly from Italy to ensure authenticity—such as mozzarella from Naples and San Marzano tomatoes. The kitchen employs traditional techniques, including the slow fermentation of the pizza dough, which enhances the flavor. In addition to the main courses, "Da Mario" offers a selection of antipasti, like fresh burrata with tomatoes, celebrating the simplicity of Italian flavors, as well as an impressive drinks menu featuring Italian wines and the popular Aperol Spritz, which tastes especially good on the terrace.
Restaurant with celebrity history
The service is often described as warm and efficient, with a team mainly composed of Italian staff who bring a personal touch to the service. Notably, the friendliness of the staff stands out, as they strive to provide guests with a pleasant experience even during busy times—whether through recommendations or willingness to accommodate special requests. The venue is family-friendly and offers a relaxed atmosphere that still maintains a touch of exclusivity, not least due to its prominent history and proximity to London's cultural scene.
