London's place where Italy meets England: prosecco and afternoon tea at Luci
April 11, 2025
In the heart of bustling London, at 136 Long Acre, hides a unique place that gracefully blends two worlds - Italian flavor and English tradition. Luci Restaurant is not just another dining establishment, but a true oasis for lovers of fine dining and unforgettable culinary experiences. It is here, in the heart of the British capital, that you can immerse yourself in an atmosphere that will transport you simultaneously to the sunny coast of Italy and to an elegant English-style tea salon. Luci is a place where prosecco glistens in glasses and afternoon tea is served with true craftsmanship, creating the perfect backdrop for romantic get-togethers, family celebrations or business conversations over an exquisite meal.
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Italian flavors in an English setting
Luci is a restaurant that successfully combines the best of Italian cuisine with the elegance and tradition of English afternoon tea. Located in the heart of London, at 136 Long Acre, it offers guests a unique dining experience at an affordable price (PRICE_LEVEL_MODERATE). Luci's interior is delightfully atmospheric - large windows on the second floor allow you to admire the traffic, and during the holiday season offer a spectacular view of the Christmas illuminations.
Guests at Luci can enjoy authentic Italian flavors, such as freshly baked pizzas straight from the oven, which is located on the first floor of the restaurant. Particularly recommended is the fennel and sausage pizza, which, while perhaps not stunning, is sure to please the palates of Italian cuisine lovers. For those who prefer more refined dishes, Luci also serves pastas, including pasta with a spicy sauce that, despite some shortcomings in preparation, offers an interesting combination of flavors.
One of Luci's highlights is afternoon tea, served in typical English style. This is ideal for groups of friends or families looking for a unique dining experience. The restaurant offers a special vegetarian menu, which demonstrates its flexibility and concern for the needs of different customer groups. However, it is worth keeping in mind that the quality and pace of service can sometimes fall short of expectations, especially for larger groups.
Lucia's atmosphere is its undoubted asset - the second floor of the restaurant offers a spacious and comfortable lounge area, full of charm and atmosphere. It is an ideal place for a romantic dinner or a business meeting in an informal atmosphere. The interior design is reminiscent of a classic, old-fashioned style, which adds authenticity and warmth to the establishment.
A culinary journey between Italy and England
Luci is not just a restaurant, it is a true culinary experience that combines the best of Italian and English cuisine. The menu offers a wide variety of dishes, from classic Italian appetizers to pizzas and pastas to typically English afternoon snacks. Particularly recommended are the freshly baked cakes, including a rich chocolate cake that delights with its intense flavor and texture.
One of the hits of the menu is the traditional Italian 'guinciale', although some guests noted that its quantity in the dishes could be greater. For seafood lovers, Luci prepares fried delicacies that taste best fresh. It's worth remembering to ask your waiter to time the serving of each dish so that you can fully enjoy the flavor and temperature.
Afternoon tea at Luci is a true ritual that allows you to feel the atmosphere of English tradition. It is served with elegance and attention to detail, although some guests note the limited selection of options for vegans. It's worth noting that the £34 price tag for the experience may seem a bit steep to some, especially considering that additional servings of tea may be charged extra.
Luci is also famous for its bar, where delicious prosecco is served - the perfect accompaniment to Italian dishes or as an aperitif before afternoon tea. This combination of Italian flair and English tradition creates a unique experience that attracts locals and tourists alike.
The atmosphere at Luci is worth mentioning. Although the interior and décor are charming and cozy, some guests point out that the music is too loud, which can make conversation difficult. This is an aspect that the restaurant could improve to provide an even more comfortable environment to spend time and enjoy meals.
Summary: Is it worth visiting Luci?
Luci, with a rating of 4.3 stars, undoubtedly has a lot to offer its guests. The restaurant is a fascinating combination of the Italian passion for food and the English tradition of afternoon tea, creating a unique dining experience in the heart of London.
One of Lucia's greatest assets is its location. Located at 136 Long Acre, in the heart of the city, it offers the perfect starting point for exploring the charms of the British capital. Large windows on the second floor allow guests to observe London's bustling streets, which is particularly charming during the holiday season, when the city is lit up with Christmas illuminations.
The interior of the restaurant deserves special attention. Decorated with attention to detail, it combines elements of Italian style with English elegance. The spacious room on the second floor, described by guests as comfortable and atmospheric, is an ideal place for a romantic dinner or meeting with friends.
As for the menu, Luci offers a wide selection of dishes that should satisfy a variety of tastes. From freshly baked pizzas to pastas with spicy sauce to traditional English snacks served during afternoon tea, there is something for everyone. Desserts are especially recommended, including a rich chocolate cake that has won the approval of many guests.
It's worth bearing in mind, however, that opinions on the quality of service at Luci vary. Some guests praise the friendly and courteous staff, while others point out some shortcomings, especially when serving larger groups. The speed at which meals are served and the coordination between the kitchen and the room are areas that some reviews say need improvement.
Prices at Luci are moderate (PRICE_LEVEL_MODERATE), making it accessible to a wide range of customers. However, some guests feel that value for money could be better, especially for afternoon tea.
All in all, Luci is definitely a place worth visiting if you are looking for a unique blend of Italian and English culinary traditions. The restaurant offers an interesting menu, a pleasant atmosphere and an attractive location. Despite some shortcomings in service, the overall impression of most guests is positive. Luci is an interesting proposition both for tourists looking to experience something unique, and for Londoners looking for a place for a special dinner or an afternoon meeting over tea and prosecco.
However, be sure to book a table in advance, especially if you plan to visit in a larger group or during peak hours. It's also a good idea to inform the staff of any dietary preferences you may have to ensure the best possible dining experience at Luci.
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