Nestled amidst the stylish streets of London’s Marylebone area, the opulent grounds of the Lavo emerge as a beacon of Italian elegance touched slightly with LA flair. Situated within the luxurious BoTree hotel on Marylebone Lane, this latest offering from the renowned Tao Group is a haven of girly decadence, drawing influence from its Sunset Boulevard sister that counts models like Winnie Harlow and Kendall Jenner among its patrons. Poppy and Chloe Delevingne, too, give their nod to London's glitzy makeover.
Behind a thick curtain of foliage, a plethora of indoor and outdoor plants and flowers welcome you as you enter the golden-wood door on Henrietta Place. The atmosphere is undeniably warm and inviting. Ascend the stairs to find yourself in the company of Dorian van Braam's porcelain twig-like chandeliers, where you can enjoy Lavo-linis with hibiscus caviar, Negroni Biancos, or Spicy Strawberry Mezcalitas. Alternatively, descend into the warmly lit dining area, nestled beneath a majestic Italian olive tree.
The interiors exude a 1970s charm, with rattan lampshades, autumn-hued velvet couches, wood-paneled ceilings, linen tapestries, and exposed brickwork creating an atmosphere of laidback luxury. It's a space that perfectly balances opulence with comfort, setting the stage for an exceptional dining experience.
Culinary Director Ralph Scamardella, hailing from San Severino Marche and known for his stints at esteemed establishments like Cecconi's, Shoreditch House, and Santini, brings his rustic Italian roots to life on Lavo's menu. Standout dishes include the creamy Tagliatelle al Limone, adorned with marjoram and Oscietra caviar, the Saltbaked Mediterranean Seabass for two, and The Meatball, a 500-gram amalgamation of Wagyu and Italian pork sausage, generously adorned with marinara sauce and fresh whipped ricot A testament to the restaurant's dedication to genuine Italian cuisine are the rich flavors of aged Puglia olive oil that accompany each dish. ine.
The dessert menu continues the celebration of Italian richness, featuring local favorites like Ricotta Bombolone, Pistachia Torta, and Tiramisu. Enjoy the 20-Layer Peanut Butter Cake with Mascarpone and a variety of Digestivi, such as Evangelista Limoncello and Grappfa di Boralo, for a truly decadent experience.
In the heart of Marylebone's immaculate rows of red-brick townhouses, Lavo offers a touch of Euro-charm, inviting patrons to revel in Italian ostentation. From the stylish interiors to the sumptuous cuisine, Lavo stands as a testament to the art of dining, an experience that transcends mere sustenance to become a celebration of taste and luxury. A visit to Lavo in W1 promises an unforgettable journey through the opulent tapestry of Italian cuisine.
