Ресторан · London · ⭐ 9.7/10 · 39830 reviews · $$$ · updated: 2026-06-30 20:42:39
Address: 40-41 Rathbone Pl, London W1T 1HX, United Kingdom
Big Mamma’s most spectacular Italian in Fitzrovia
Circolo Popolare, part of the cult Big Mamma group, is one of London’s most photographed Italian restaurants — a Sicilian, Mediterranean trattoria tucked away on Rathbone Square in Fitzrovia, and one of the addresses everyone seems to be posting about.
What to order
The showstopper is the Gran Carbonara, mixed and served straight from a 4kg wheel of pecorino. Beyond it, expect soft Neapolitan pizzas made with San Marzano DOP tomatoes and fresh mozzarella, creamy burrata sourced directly from Puglia, and moreish fritters and garlic bread to share. Leave room for dessert: the chocolate-covered profiterole and the famous, zingy XXL lemon pie are the stuff of Instagram legend. Every ingredient is carefully selected, and the flavours back up the dramatic setting.
The Space
The room is a riot of cascading ceiling flowers, white-washed stone and walls lined with some 20,000 bottles of vintage spirits and wines. Hanging greenery and romantic candlelight somehow keep it feeling rustic despite the blockbuster looks; the atmosphere is vibrant, the service warm, and the whole space feels like stepping into a joyful, oversized Italian trattoria.
Who it’s for
This is a place for a fun night out with friends, a celebration or a date where the room is part of the show. With generous portions, it suits anyone who wants great Italian food in one of the most striking dining rooms in central London. Booking ahead is strongly recommended.
Questions and answers
What kind of food does Circolo Popolare serve? Generous Italian dishes with a Sicilian, Mediterranean accent — Neapolitan pizzas, pasta, burrata and big desserts.
What should I order first? The Gran Carbonara served from a 4kg pecorino wheel, plus a Neapolitan pizza and the XXL lemon pie.
What makes the interior special? Cascading ceiling flowers, white-washed stone and around 20,000 bottles lining the walls.
Is it part of Big Mamma? Yes — it’s one of the Big Mamma group’s most spectacular London restaurants.
Do I need to book ahead? Yes — it’s hugely popular, so booking well in advance is strongly recommended.
Opening hours
| Day | Hours |
|---|---|
| Monday | 12:00–22:30 |
| Tuesday | 12:00–22:30 |
| Wednesday | 12:00–22:30 |
| Thursday | 12:00–22:30 |
| Friday | 12:00–22:30 |
| Saturday | 11:00–22:30 |
| Sunday | 11:00–22:00 |
Photos
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Visitor reviews
Reviews last updated: 2026-06-30 20:42:39
Data is refreshed monthly. Sources: london-trend.uk and editorial picks based on reviews.
Incredible place. The atmosphere, honestly, is one of the best around here. Very relaxed, warm and a perfect spot for an unhurried meal. The food also completely lived up to expectations. I ordered the mushroom and truff…
I'm here for the second time, the food is top! Carpathians and pizza, delicious! The service is a bit slow, but we reckon it's always fully booked here.