4 /5 The Foodie Compass: Popped into Lina Stores at the Bloomberg Arcade and it was a really lovely experience overall. The vibe is exactly what you would expect from the City, stylish and buzzing, though it did get quite noisy. With the after work crowd and some rather boisterous bankers nearby, having a proper catch up was a bit of a challenge, but the energy of the place is undeniable.
The food itself was very good overall, particularly the pasta which was beautifully cooked and managed to feel light rather than heavy. The Pici alla Norcina was the absolute star for me. That Umbrian sausage is incredibly delicious and creates a rich, hearty sauce that feels like a warm hug. I also really enjoyed the Pappardelle al Ragù di Osso Buco. The meat was wonderfully soft and the ragu sauce had a fantastic depth of flavour.
The Linguine con Granchio e Limone, which was pleasant but perhaps a little too subtle. At this price point, I was expecting a bit more punch from the lemon and certainly a more generous helping of crab, as the seafood felt a bit lost in the dish. However, the meal started and ended on incredible highs. The focaccia is fantastic with a really well developed flavour in the dough, and you simply must try the Torta al Cioccolato. It is easily one of the best ones Ive had in a while, served warm and surprisingly light rather than dense. It was a complete joy to eat.
In terms of value, the prices feel a little steep for the portion sizes. I usually associate Italian dining with big, hearty portions, but these felt more tailored to the local City worker budget. It wont necessarily break the bank, but it is worth noting if you are coming in from further afield with a massive appetite.
The staff and service were absolutely fantastic and I really could not fault them. They were attentive and friendly despite how busy the room was. If you are looking for top quality pasta and a vibrant atmosphere, I would definitely recommend a visit, just perhaps not for a quiet first date!
