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London – Last month I had the pleasure to be invited by the Antinori Family for a lush dinner paired with prestigious Antinori wines at the cosy Cantinetta Antinori, a pretty restaurants with strong Tuscan vibes which is based in Knightsbridge. Guests included Director of the Foreign Press Association FPA Deborah Bonetti ,and other Italian journalists. The Antinori family of Florence is one of the world oldest and most distinguished wine producers living in Tuscany since the 14th century.
Piero Antinori, the family patriarch has passed the love and passion for wine to his three daughters Albiera Allegra, Alessia who all play a key role in the company and the wine making business. The Menu consisted of a selection of vitello Tonnato, Italian Cured meat, seared tuna carpaccio and burrata with cherry tomato as a antipasto. First course was pappardelle al ragu di Wagyu and second course was a selection of grilled peppered sauce beef tenderloin and fried seabass with sauteed spinach. For dessert was served a delicious Tiramisu al Pistacchio. As for the wine served, there was Blanc de Blancs, Franciacorta Docg, Cervaro della Sala 2020 Umbria IGT, Tignanello 2019, Tuscany IGT.
Cantinetta Antinori, the renowned Antinori wine making family’s first London outpost has now opened, courtesy of renowned international restaurateur and leading luxury meat importer Riccardo Giraudi. The restaurant is tucked away on Knightsbridge’s Harriet Street, situated just off the capital’s iconic Sloane Street. Inspired by the hospitality, good food and fine wine of Tuscany – in particular Florence – the elegant and cosy culinary destination offers relaxed all-day Italian dining. Signature dishes highlight both traditional and contemporary Tuscan recipes, complemented by Antinori wines including a collection of exclusive vintages from the Antinori family estates.
The family’s impressive oenological heritage is also proudly flaunted in a selection of new dishes devised by Riccardo. Various Antinori wines have been harmoniously incorporated into the cooking processes of several dishes, including the Black Cod al Vin Santo, Ragu Ai Nobile di Montepulciano, and Chocolate Tarte Souffle with Cabernet, creating a delicately balanced and carefully curated wine pairing on a plate.
Diners can enjoy decadently delicious menus for dinner and lunch, including a two-course lunch set menu and a glass of wine priced at £29 per person, with a seasonal Truffle menu also available. Choose from stand alone starters or those designed for sharing which include a Cured meat and cheese board; Burrata, cherry tomatoes, pine nuts and basil oil; and a selection of artisanal breads. A medley of mains follow such as the silky Signature beef carbonara with mezze maniche, egg yolk, Pecorino and smoked Kobe beef Karasumi; Veal fillet escalope with lemon; and Wild Sea bass with white carrot cream, Swiss chard, spinach and shallot. Those with a sweet tooth can finish their meal with a twist on a Tuscan classic; a silky Pistachio Tiramisu which is assembled table-side, or the sumptuous Almond chocolate cake with coffee ice cream.
The knowledgeable sommelier team is on hand to guide guests through the carefully curated wine list and offer bespoke wine pairings from the extensive cellar.
Every Friday and Saturday from 6.30pm – 10.30pm, Cantinetta Antinori will play host to buzzing live music evenings with an evolving roster of Jazz musicians and resident bands. Friends and family can enjoy the soothing sounds whilst sampling exceptional fine wines and indulgent sharing plates from the Aperitivo menu.
A unique brunch menu is available on weekends, offering dishes with Tuscan flair such as their Carbonara-inspired take on poached eggs, Uova in camicia alla Carbonara, and Focaccia di Recco Al Tartufo, a thin focaccia stuffed with Stracchino cheese and white truffle.
Designed by architectural firm Archflorence – which worked closely with the family on developing a contemporary style inspired by the historical Cantinetta Antinori restaurant in Florence – the beautifully decorated and characterful interiors are adorned with Tuscan artisanal motifs such as brass vine leaves, displays of wine, wall-mounted colourful plates and enchanting curiosities from the Antinori family collection.
The restaurant features various private dining spaces which are perfect for group dining and intimate celebrations. The chic private dining room seats up to 10 guests with views over Harriet Street, and is open for lunch slots (12pm – 3pm) or for dinner (6pm – 10:30pm). Other areas of the restaurant can also be privately reserved including the ground floor accommodating up to 25 people, and both levels of the first floor with space for 44.
A jewel in the crown of this esteemed neighbourhood, Riccardo Giraudi says of Cantinetta Antinori: “We look forward to this new chapter and are delighted to serve the local community with our Tuscan hospitality and gastronomy. Cantinetta Antinori reflects the cosiness and charm of what we all love to do: having a glass of the best wine and comfy food in a great jazzy atmosphere.”
To make a reservation, please visit HERE. Cantinetta Antinori is also available for delivery on SUPPER and Deliveroo.