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This is a slice of buttoned-up Italy amid the bric-a-brac and occasional market stalls of Portobello Road - and the efficient staff manage to make it work. Lacquered wood, steel and spotless worktops set the sleek tone, with a few tables to sit by the front, or lean-back seating in the rear of the bar. People who fill these tend to be either wealthy Americans or visitors from the country of La Dolce Vita, trying the outstanding coffee from a Faema espresso machine. Or there are plates such as thick slices of sweet, rich parma ham sitting amid rich, melting buffalo mozzarella and tiny figs. But Negozio specialises in the mouth-puckering, rose and tar flavours of Barolo too, with bottles lining the walls to take away, or a few available to sample if you stay. Borgogno's 2001 Riserva, or at less cost the same producer's 2005 Dolcetto d'Alba offer great drinking. Negozio Classica is uncompromisingly Italian, and all the better for it.
Time Out Bars, Pubs & Clubs Guide 2008/9
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I love Negozio Classica - I think it is brilliant that they offer such fine wines by the glass, you can taste a great Barolo o Brunello without having to order a bottle. When I go there with friends, we tend to choose a bottle of those on display and we have it in (the corkage fee is very low and the atmosphere is fantastic). I have tried most of their food and it is consistently good and well served. It is amazing how a place on the Portobello road where you would expect only tourists is packed with locals every night - I made loads of friends at Classica, starting from the staff!
the best wine bar/shop in london