Leave the bustle of Sloane Square and the Kings Road and head a few minutes’ walk away to Elystan Street in elegant Chelsea.
Elystan Street is very much the heart of this neighbourhood – a good butcher, fishmonger, greengrocer, a boutique or two, plus a few useful shops and the Elistano restaurant. The lunchtime we were there were several office workers and some of the local residents. One party of four, sitting near us, reserve the same table every Wednesday.
I liked the smart casual appearance of the dining room with its crisp décor of white walls, neatly displayed pictures, and tables beautifully set for lunch service. Front of house is run by General Manager Goran Natev whilst the kitchen is led by Head Chef Daniele Urbani. Italian Chef Daniele cooks classic Italian dishes including old favourites like lasagne and pizza along with more modern recipes. The latter depending on what ingredients he has sourced, chiefly from the local shops, and the season.
It has to be said that our Zucchini Fritti and Grilled Sardine starters were delicious; and there were no complaints about the tasty house Lasagne or the Crab Risotto. The panna cotta with very good chocolate ice cream got a rave review too, and we noticed that the homemade Tiramisu appeared to be very popular with the regular diners. If we had a quibble it was merely that the bread was nothing special. However, there is a good, manageable size, wine list.
And for anybody not wanting to eat à la carte there are fixed price menus at £15.95 for two courses and£18.95 for three, available Monday to Friday. The service was friendly and good and we thoroughly enjoyed our lunch. Will definitely be visiting Elistano again. M.B.
Elistano, 27 Elystan Street, Chelsea Green, London, SW3 3NT. Tel: 020 7584 5248