La Dolce Vita made in London

As the blog is evolving I have decided to give London the attention it deserves. Being a proud Londoner I would like to share once a week one of my London favorites.

I shall start this Thursdays series with the Cantina del Ponte. It may seem an odd choice to start writing about England's capital with an Italian restaurant but, from the terrace, it has one of the most beautiful views of the city. The restaurant is located on the southern river bank (a walk I strongly recommend) and looks at Tower Bridge's best profile.

Cantina del Ponte often offers wine tasting evenings to showcase gorgeous Italian wines. As we went along to one with some colleagues we were pleasantly surprised, not that the wine was good because this was expected, but by the quality of the products and the attention to detail. Not very common in places where you pay for the view and not the restaurant experience. This family business has succeeded in bringing the best of Italy onto your plates. Dishes are traditional rather that modern, portions are of reasonable size and full of flavor. Inside, the place is decorated this rustic furniture, wine bottles, and a mouth watering display of a range of Italian salamis. On your table you will find a little Rosemary bush, and fine olive oil in case you wished to give your dish an extra splash of flavor. The large olive trees outside add to the charm of the scenery, all one might be missing is a few more degrees!

Terrace view (not too shabby!)

Fine Italian Products

The cellar