We recently dined at Big Mamma's Carlotta restaurant in Marleybone, curating an edit of statement tableware and glassware to compliment Carlotta's iconic maximalist interiors. The space blends Italian charm with a playful, contemporary setting. The interiors are vibrant and eclectic, featuring velvet banquettes, patterned tiles, and a mix of vintage mirrors and family photographs. It’s a space that captures the essence of Italian dining, blending warmth, hospitality, and a bit of opulence.

Big Mamma’s Carlotta is a refined and stylish homage to Italian tradition, celebrating the essence of both classic Sicilian trattorias and family-run ristorantes across the globe. The restaurant pays tribute to the Italian pioneers who brought their recipes and cultural heritage to new shores, crafting vibrant Italian communities abroad. In a similar spirit, Carlotta’s team planted their roots in London in 2019, continuing this legacy.

At the heart of the kitchen, Head Chef Armando, drawing on recipes from both his Nonna Gina and renowned Italian chef Alfredo Viazzi, set out to create a menu with bold flavors. He sources the finest British ingredients, from Scottish razor clams to high-welfare rose veal from Cheshire’s Alternative Meats, used in the sumptuous Tartare di Vitello Tonnato. Pasta lovers are treated to reimagined classics, such as a spicy nduja twist on Spaghetti and Meatballs, and the indulgent Fettuccine Alfredo al Tartufo for two. For dessert, the centerpiece is Carlotta’s iconic Wedding Cake, a must-try for anyone with a sweet tooth.