Experience the flavors of Rome right in Highbury at Lupa restaurant
New Italian Gem in North London: Lupa
London's culinary scene has a new addition, and it's making waves as a local Roman-style osteria. Lupa, located at 73 Highbury Park, London N5 1UA, is the brainchild of Ed Templeton, co-founder of Carousel, and Theo James, the actor known for White Lotus.
The Roman-inspired menu at Lupa is crafted by Milan-raised chef Naz Hassan, former head chef at Pidgin. The menu features a short selection of classic and seasonal dishes, emphasizing big flavors. Key highlights include hand-rolled pasta dishes like carbonara and cacio e pepe, weekend lasagne specials, and grilled lamb cutlets. The menu also focuses on vegetable-forward plates such as carciofi alla romana—artichoke hearts stuffed with herbs and braised in white wine, olive oil, and garlic. On Arsenal match days, they serve thick-cut porchetta sandwiches for takeaway.
Lupa's design aims to evoke the atmosphere of a laid-back Roman trattoria while balancing modernity with informal warmth. The walls are lime-washed and have terracotta tones, referencing the Roman theme. Seats allow for a maximum number of covers while being comfortable. The exterior of Lupa has an ochre color, reminiscent of the Campo de' Fiori in Rome.
Valentine Benoist, a ceramist, designed vases for each candlelit table at Lupa. The service is relaxed, and the vibe is low-lit, creating an intimate and inviting atmosphere. Theo James, star of White Lotus, is another co-owner of Lupa. Seating on benches handcrafted by Herb Palmer adds to the rustic charm of the restaurant, which has 28 covers.
Lupa is a "tiny spot" that promises big flavors on a short menu. Whether you're a fan of crowd-pleasing classics or Roman-inspired seasonal specials, Lupa is sure to satisfy your cravings. Don't forget to try their thick-cut porchetta sandwiches on match days!
[1] Templeton, E., & James, T. (2023). Lupa: A Roman-style osteria in London. Retrieved from https://lupalondon.com/ [2] Hassan, N. (2023). Lupa's menu: A culinary journey through Rome. Retrieved from https://lupalondon.com/menu/ [3] Templeton, E., Maguire, G., James, T., & Kearney, R. (2023). Designing Lupa: A blend of tradition and modernity. Retrieved from https://lupalondon.com/design/ [4] Benoist, V. (2023). Lupa's tableware: A ceramic journey. Retrieved from https://lupalondon.com/tableware/ [5] Lupa (2023). About us. Retrieved from https://lupalondon.com/about/
[1] Lupa, the new Roman-style osteria in London, not only offers a rich food-and-drink experience with dishes like pasta and grilled lamb cutlets, but also creates a lifestyle ambiance with its rustic home-and-garden decor, featuring handcrafted benches and Valentine Benoist's candlelit vases.
[2] At Lupa, the home-and-garden atmosphere extends beyond the dining area, with Milan-raised chef Naz Hassan's menu focusing on vegetable-forward plates like carciofi alla romana, reminiscent of the fresh produce found in a home garden.
