Tentazioni

Time Out says

Mon May 21 2012

Tucked away in a handsome wharf near Tower Bridge, Tentazioni generates an atmosphere of warm elegance with burgundy walls, streamlined white leather chairs and moody abstract art. The menu spans Italy, taking in Venetian cicchetti, Ligurian trofie pasta tossed with vibrant pesto, potatoes and green beans, and unctuous Pugliese burrata (cream-filled mozzarella). The insipid cherry tomatoes accompanying the latter were a rare dud in an otherwise uniformly excellent parade of dishes.

Dynamic creations for more adventurous palates dot the menu – you could encounter a starter of risotto with strawberry and balsamic, or decadent asparagus and truffle soup with poached duck egg. Pasta is a strong point, a highlight being beef and parma ham tortellini in a delicate broth. The cocoa and sugar sprinkling on a martini glass of tiramisu was theatrically set alight and the custardy goodness below offset by crunchy biscuits – a pleasantly unexpected variation on a classic.

Smartly dressed staff provided polished service to well-to-do diners, dispensing personalised wine recommendations to groups of regulars. A seven-course tasting menu offers further indulgence. A contemporary yet intimate venue popular with those who can afford waterfront living.