Caraffini: a little find off Sloane Square

Many moons ago, I worked at the Sloane Club as a Front Office Manager. It is during these years that I was first introduced to Caraffini, which is located almost directly opposite the Club in Lower Sloane Street.

Every day I would be asked by quite a few members to book a table. So much so that curiosity finally got the best of me and I decided to see with my own eyes what the fuss was all about. Being just a stone's throw from Sloane Square, i somehow expected an overpriced minimalistic pseudo italian affair. I was in for a surprise then, and was again surprised last night.

With family members coming to visit and staying in the vicinity, I booked a table for four at Caraffini. After all this years, I wondered whether much would have changed. The moment the reservation was taken, I suspected that it did not. The friendly, relaxed tone of the person who took my reservation was palpable.

We were all set for 7:30 on Saturday evening (reservations are strongly recommended as it is almost guaranteed to fill every day of the week).

We arrived to a surprisingly quiet restaurant, which slowly filled to capacity over the 2 hours we were there. The Maitre D' took us (through a swarm or waiters: 8 I think) to a nice table in the corner of the restaurant. The menu had not changed and it remains a true italian affair. Don't expect Pizza as there is none and don't expect little portions of nouvelle cuisine either as the dishes are substantial.

While reading the menu, we were offered some bread and olives and to my delight our request for a jug of tap water was not met with a look resembling that of a policeman entering a crime scene. In fact, our waiter pointed out that they call it "Sloane Spring", which we thought rather amusing. A bottle of Pino Griggio was also ordered.

I had a Gazpacho soup (not very italian really). Being spanish and a good Gazpacho cook myself, I had my reservations but it was delicious and refreshing (10/10). My fellow guests had carpaccio, which was also beautifully tasty.

Main courses, arrived promptly (if slightly fast) and we treated ourselves to veal with a side of home made spaguetti, pasta with crab in a crab shell, scallops and king prawns. All mains were simply presented and ludicrously tasty and wholesome.

Service was exceptional and seamless: we asked for desserts to be delayed to balance the somehow short starter-main gap. We were not rushed and were left to enjoy our conversation.

Desserts came and although they were nothing to write home about, one does not visit Caraffini for its sweets. Mind you: the authentic Tiramisu is worth a try.

The bill came to just over £150 for 4 people (3 course meal, plus wine and coffee). We thought it was exceptionally good value.

Caraffini Restaurant
61 - 63 Lower Sloane Street
SW1W 8DH

Phone: 020 7259 0235

Opening Hours
Monday - Saturday
Lunch 12.15 - 2.30pm
Dinner 6.30 - 11.30pm