Like a bastion of good taste amongst Soho’s less salubrious establishments, Lina Stores serves up an excellent range of very fine Italian goods.

The Venue
Lina Stores’ almost antiquated front is a welcoming antidote to the flashing neon signs of the nearby Soho favourites, with a typeface and green design that looks unchanged since at least the fifties. Inside it’s pretty much the same - little effort’s been made to make it easily accessible, with a tight walkway dissecting all the tasty looking fare that hugs the walls and vies for room in the cabinets. It’s all part of an impeccable charm though, offering a little glimpse into what shopping might still be like if the corporate behemoths hadn’t got their way.

The Atmosphere
Weekdays see Lina being kept busy by a stream of in-the-know Soho suits, either grabbing a tasty lunch or picking up ingredients for an authentic Italian meal in the evening. Inside, it’s a vibrant place with plenty of staff kept on their toes by orders for all sorts, with many customers seeming to know exactly what they’re after, augmenting the feeling that this place is a haven for foodies. Those not as au fait with Italian produce needn’t worry though, the staff are incredibly knowledgeable, and eager to ensure that you’re suitably catered for.

The Food
Lina Stores is bursting at the seams with a really good selection of authentic Italian deli produce, from a plethora of cheeses, cured meats and fresh pasta to olives, breads, sun dried tomatoes and dried Italian basics. If you just want to sample something on your lunch break though, sandwiches are made to order and showcase the impeccable ingredients really well. Particularly good is the herb and olive oil focaccia bread with succulent Italian ham, sun dried tomatoes, rocket and a deliciously mature provolone piccante cheese for £3.50. If you fancy something sweet afterwards, then this place is well known in the area for its freshly baked, exquisitely textured rock cakes. And justifiably so at only 90p.

The Drink
There’s not a huge selection of drinks available but everything there is admirably authentic. Some good quality orange juices are probably your best bet but if you’re feeling a little more adventurous the Chinotto San Pellegrino (70p for a can) is certainly worth trying. It’s a citrus and herbal carbonated beverage flavoured with the chinotto fruit, resulting in a drink that tastes not dissimilar to cola, but with a sour aftertaste that some might not like, but many will love.

The Last Word
Lina Stores should be the first port of call for anyone interested in Italian cooking, but even if you’re not a dab hand in the kitchen head there and let them make you a sandwich – you won’t be disappointed.

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