Owned by husband and wife team Maria and Antonio Russo, Agrodolce has been a firm favourite on the Rome dining scene since 2018. That success has carried over to London where they recently celebrated their one-year anniversary at their premises on Charlotte Street, Fitzrovia.
In this time, Agrodolce has become renowned for its unwavering commitment to authentic Italian cuisine. The focus remains firmly on traditional Roman pasta dishes, using high-quality ingredients and at affordable prices. At its core, Agrodolce elevates the art of good home cooking and honours the tradition of ‘fatta con amore’ – made with love – which can be savoured in every bite. The Luxury Report caught up with Maria to learn about the philosophy behind a great Italian dining experience.
Great food in Rome is loved for its simplicity. Is staying true to that approach a risk in London’s super-competitive market?
Not if it’s done well. What I see from the success of Agrodolce in London is that maybe people are tiring of complicated food. Delicious food doesn’t need to be complicated, at least not in our view. Simplicity wins, especially when it comes from quality produce cooked with authentic Roman recipes. Nothing more is needed really.
How important is sourcing authentic ingredients, such as guanciale and pecorino romano to your philosophy?
Very important – we are lucky to have an Italian supplier in London who sources and imports our ingredients from the best Italian producers. Otherwise, we wouldn’t be able to guarantee the same quality of the food.
Beyond the food, how do you bring the spirit of Rome into the your restaurant?
It’s hard to say exactly how you create an atmosphere, because authenticity is natural. In Agrodolce you’ll hear Italian being spoken, you’ll see vintage Italian plates and you’ll taste authentic Italian dishes cooked as they should be, from a proper carbonara to a creamy tiramisu. All of these elements combined make you feel like you are being transported to Rome for two hours.
You can enjoy an Aperol Spritz and other Italian cocktails and wines, all accompanied by a very relaxed, home-style atmosphere, what we would call ‘calorosa’ in Italy.
Which dish on the menu excites you the most, and why?
Oh, there are many! Like Antonio’s (my husband and business partner) mother’s recipe for bruschetta with stracciatella, homemade tomato confit, and anchovies. Or our incredibly truffley and creamy truffle pasta. Another favourite of mine is the Roman classic amatriciana (yes, I’m on team amatriciana, while Antonio will always go for carbonara!). And of course, something you absolutely can’t miss at Agrodolce is our tiramisu.
Further information
agrodolcelondon.uk
