Signature Knightsbridge Italian, Sale e Pepe, Turns 50

Since 1974

On this surprisingly warm autumn evening, we ducked through Sale e Pepe’s crimson awnings to be greeted with an Aperol Spritz that seemed to cling onto the remnants of summertime. Despite the restaurant celebrating its 50th year, this was our first visit, and we were eager to experience such an iconic destination. The warming hotspot has long been a favourite of A-list clientele, from Priscilla Presley and Roger Moore in the 70s and 80s, to music legends like Shania Twain and Noel Gallagher in the 90s and 00s. Since opening its doors in 1974, this charming Italian has become a beloved fixture in Knightsbridge for many—whether the paparazzi are snapping pictures of you or not.

Now, as it enters its second half-century, Sale e Pepe has undergone its first interior update since the 70s, with a refreshed menu to match. To mark this milestone, the restaurant celebrated with a dinner of carefully selected classics and culinary spectacles, bringing their festivities to a fitting crescendo. Here, I recount the evening in all its chic, celebratory glory.

Sharing is Caring

Italian food always seems to bring a sense of togetherness, of family and warmth. Despite sitting beside fresh acquaintances, this sense of togetherness never faltered. The tablecloths fused and the perimeter of the restaurant filled with buzzing guests alight with conversation. One prime element with many of the dishes served was the element of sharing. There is something about breaking a burrata in half with someone across from you that creates a bond for life (or for the evening). Servers moved gracefully between the tables, delivering spoonfuls of crab and avocado, delicate slices of beef carpaccio, velvety burrata, and succulent prawns. These beautifully executed classic starters are the kind of timeless Italian dishes that have earned their place as restaurant staples.

Both my colleague Lara Finn and I opted for the only pasta dish on offer, Paccheri Alla Norma. A hearty bowl of aubergine, olives and tomatoes laced with basil oil and cushioned with tubes of fresh pasta (and, of course, coated in a fresh grating of parmesan). If that wasn’t enough, instead of dinner and a show, dinner was the show? A chef appeared in the centre of the restaurant with a hollowed out wheel of Parmigiano Reggiano, a blow-torch, fresh black truffle and a grater. Little did we know that the wheel of cheese would act as the saucer for a creamy truffle and mushroom risotto, cooked up before our eyes to be served alongside our mains.

A grand performance of Truffle and Tiramisu

The culinary show continued as the wheel of cheese was replaced by a tiramisu large enough for a banquet, alongside a baked cheesecake just as impressive in size. A team of kitchen staff gathered around the table, dusting the edges of the tiramisu with cocoa powder and topping the cheesecake with tart raspberries. Carried out in perfect, synchronised unison as if some kind of choreographed dance routine.

For me, a great tiramisu is the mark of a truly exceptional Italian restaurant. This means layers galore, and lady fingers soaked to their tipping point with Tia Maria mix. Sale e Pepe’s tiramisu delivered on all fronts, and the cheesecake was equally light and delicious. Yet, by this point, my appetite was nearing its limit and I was ready for a digestif after a few bites. To say we ate well would be an understatement.

After an evening of wonderful company and (almost too many) delicious dishes, we were just handing over our cloakroom tokens to head out when, of course, shots of limoncello appeared. How could we possibly say no? Saluti!

If, like us before that night, you are a seasoned Londoner who’s never visited this spot, don’t wait another 50 years to book yourself a table. Find out more and make your reservation via saleepepe.co.uk