Set amidst the bustle of the new Tottenham Court Road Station development Vapiano provides authentic Italian cuisine in a stunning contemporary environment. The restaurant itself is busy and buzzing with a relaxed walk-in policy there is plenty of space and no need to book. Set over three levels, the interior has floor to ceiling glass windows overlooking the square, with an open bar area for cocktails, mixed seating on large sharing tables for diners, plus an additional top floor dining space which is ideal for larger parties. The modern open kitchen allows guests to see the magic happen as talented chefs get to work creating their signature light sourdough pizza and authentic pasta dishes.

The Vapiano brand is known for its fresh ingredients and their fully customisable menu, allowing customers to choose their favourite hand-made pasta shape, pizza topping or salad combination. Diners can also adjust their dish to use alternatives such as Spelt Fusilli or Zoodles (zucchini noodles) as well as array of vegan options and extras. Kids are catered for with their own mini menu.

We began our meal with the Bruschetta Gamberetti, a fully loaded Bruschetta with added grilled king prawns – a hearty start. Followed by the Reef’n Beef salad, succulent tender beef combined with an abundance of prawns and roasted vegetables. The Calzone was deeply warming and packed with mushrooms, prosciutto and pepperoni in a rich tomato mozzarella sauce – a secret Vapiano recipe.

Portion sizes are extremely generous and very good value for money, despite this, we still managed to pack in a little pudding – a light as a feather Crème Di Fragola, created with handmade mascarpone and fresh strawberries, which is surprisingly low calorie, as well as trying the Tiramisu Della Case, which kind of blew the healthy eating diet… well it would be rude not to!

Vapiano has a warm friendly, relaxed vibe and an extensive menu of hearty Italian cuisine. The staff are highly attentive and with the fully customisable menu there is definitely something for everyone!

Other locations include Great Portland Street, Tower Bridge and Paddington. Deliveroo and takeaway service also available.

Website: https://uk.vapiano.com

Written by Claire Bloom

Photography courtesy of Vapiano