Rossella Muswell Hill is the second branch of the original, well-loved Kentish Town gem – and it’s had a serious glow up. This grown-up take on the neighbourhood trattoria has sweeping curved glass walls, light pouring in and a magnificent sunny courtyard, packed out with a buzzing crowd of locals, families and big groups cheersing with tiny limoncellos. The menu is classic Italian: fresh pasta, pizza, small plates and a few meat and fish mains. The pasta is probably the star of the show, from a glossy vongole with tonnarelli to a fabulous pasta alla nerano (apparently their most popular dish this summer – blame Stanley Tucci). This is a spot that does it all, and does it all masterfully well, as good for a summery date night as it is for a raucous 10-person birthday dinner. Even more, it’s a spot where you can feel the love that’s gone into it to make this happen (go on, ask your server about the black-and-white family photos on the wall).
Time Out tip
To drink, get stuck into a bottle from owner Luca’s family vineyard, or a spritz served in a big old goblet (both the limoncello and the meloncello are Rossella’s own). And make sure to order a tiramisu – it comes out on a trolley, served tableside.