Norma London

“Sicily’s strategic position in the middle of the Mediterranean has lured culture after culture to its shores, resulting in one of Europe’s richest and most remarkable histories. In 827 AD, the Moors arrived, leading to the end of the byzantine age and the beginning of a new era of trade, prosperity and hospitality under Saracen rule…”

Norma is a contemporary and vibrant restaurant inspired by the food and culture of Sicily, with particular emphasis on the Moorish influences, with the celebrated chef Ben Tish running the show.

Norma embodies the celebrated old-school Italian hospitality and charm, taking inspiration from the grand café culture found throughout Sicily. Set across three floors of this distinctive townhouse on Charlotte Street in London’s prestigious Fitzrovia, the first two floors are dedicated to the restaurant, with the top floor a private dining space.

At the heart of Norma is the crudo bar, serving the freshest seasonal raw seafood every day, all dressed in olive oils and other amazing vibrant flavourings.

The main menu focusses on modern Sicilian-inspired dishes, ranging from anti-pasti and pastas, to larger plates of grilled fish and meat. Norma champions seasonal Italian produce, currently offering homemade pastas such as Taglioni with sardines, fennel and capers and Strozzapreti with a pork, anchovy and orange ragout – delicious!

Larger plates also include the signature Norma aubergine parmigiana and the Rose veal chop, charred hispi, bottarga and Marsala sauce. Upstairs in the private dining room, guests can order family-style, sharing platters of fresh pastas, breads (Panelle and Focaccia) and dishes such as slow-cooked shoulder of Salt Marsh lamb. The menu also boasts an array of desserts including a Chocolate, walnut, coffee cake with marsala.

Images: Food – Kris Kirkham; Interiors – Milo Brown