A “soulful Italian kitchen” is opening in Queen’s Park serving handmade pasta, and hearty traditional dishes from the south of the country.
Casa Felicia takes over the site left by the Cocotte rotisserie chicken restaurant and is helmed by Neapolitan chef Francesco Sarvonio.
According to the website he hopes to bring a warm neighbourhood vibe to the upscale neighbourhood, celebrating “the joy of simple, generous cooking, bold flavours, handmade pastas, and the kind of food that makes you linger at the table”.
Due to open on October 14, the venue is designed with warmth and simplicity in mind and blends Chef Francesco’s Italian heritage with London’s particular energy.
For starters think octopus skewer with puttanesca salsa or salsiccia, friarielli and apple mustard.
Pasta dishes range from the house lasagne to pappardelle al cinghiale and beetroot caramelle, pumpkin & porcini.
Mains include 45-day dry age bistecca alla Fiorentina for 2-3, risotto alla Milanese con ossobuco, or a whole turbot baked in a salt crust.
And for sweets try the heavenly sounding potato donuts, with lavender sugar and white chocolate, Italian favourite Tiramisù, or a tart with Lemon Custard.
Drinks will focus on natural wines, and locals can look forward to Campari-based cocktails during a neighbourhood aperitivo hour, or a pre-dinner spritz.
Sarvonio was previously head chef at Giacco’s in Highbury and has also cooked at nose to tail eaterie Manteca in Shoreditch – and more recently created the menu at The Elephant pub in Hackney.
He said: “As a Neapolitan, I’m excited to bring the flavours and traditions of southern Italy to Queen’s Park, but with a modern spirit that reflects London today.
“At Casa Felicia, it’s all about generosity, authenticity, and creating food that makes people happy.”
He added: “Queen’s Park has such a special energy right now. It’s no longer just a neighbourhood but a destination for food and community. With Casa Felicia, I wanted to create somewhere that feels both familiar and inspiring, a place where people can gather, share great food and feel at home.”
Casa Felicia opens on October 14 at 79, Salusbury Road, NW6.
Dining and Cooking