Rather than an Italian Italian, The Dover is a self-styled ‘New York Italian’ that’s more Nolita than Naples. This is not your average nonna’s kitchen but rather a shimmering space to see and be seen, with stunning walnut walls and lots of discreet booths. Food comes from a long-enough list of well-done trad classics; spaghetti meatballs, parmigiana, penne arrabbiata, burger and fries, fillet mignon, and, of course, a house Dover sole, as well as a serious martini list. Prices are pretty reasonable for the area too, and there's some great old school touches; you can only book by phone, and it's not open for lunch. Hyped, but with very good reason.
33 Dover St, W1S 4NF