Choosing between Italian restaurants in Grays Inn Road? Look no further than Sicilian restaurant Luce e Limoni, the little gem in Little Italy!
Although pretty inconspicuous, Little Italy does still exist, and it’s a great place to eat, especially if you’re looking at Grays Inn Road Italian restaurants like ours!
The area has an interesting history. Throughout the 19th century, Saffron Hill became a hub for working-class Italians, mainly from the south of Italy. In 1895, it was estimated that around 12,000 Italians were living and working in London. The highest concentration of Italians was in Saffron Hill, Clerkenwell and Camden by the end of the 19th century.
During this period, many Italians in Little Italy worked as plaster bust sellers, ice vendors or servants to wealthy local families. Their strong work ethic laid the foundation for what would become the hospitality industry.
Over time, Clerkenwell, along with other parts of London, experienced gentrification, forcing many working-class residents to relocate. By the 20th century, London’s Italian community began spreading to other parts of the city. Clerkenwell remains notable for St Peter’s Italian Catholic Church, established by Roman Catholic priest St Vincent Pallotti.
Visitors can still explore the rich Italian history in the area that takes in Clerkenwell, Farringdon and Roseberry Avenue. Although Clerkenwell might not be as strongly associated with Little Italy as it once was, those seeking authentic Italian culture and authentic Italian food will find much here to enjoy, including – as mentioned above – Grays Inn Road Italian restaurants.
Yes, the highlights of Little Italy today often involve dining and drinking. Many Londoners enjoy the ‘aperitivo’ culture, a tradition from northern Italy involving pre-meal drinks.
There are plenty of upmarket eateries and brasseries within the area, and it’s well worth looking at Italian restaurants on Grays Inn road. One such is our very own Sicilian restaurant Luce e Limoni, which has been described by some of our regular guests as the little gem in Little Italy. Specialising in Sicilian cuisine and also renowned for our outstanding selection of Italian, Sicilian and Sardinian wines, our owner Fabrizio and all the team offer a warm welcome.
You’ll find us at 91-93 Gray’s Inn Road, Chancery Lane, London WC1X 8TX
Call Us 020 724 23382 | Email Us flavours@luceelimoni.com