8 Formosa Street,
London,
W9 1EE
0872 148 0741
The ViewLondon Review
General Price Guide: Moderate.
Location and Punters:
This popular, lively Italian eaterie is a member of the Bijan Behzadi, ingredient-named group of restaurants, (including Purple Sage, White Onion and Green Olive). Red Pepper attracts those punters in search of genuine article pizzas, baked in a traditional wood-fired oven. The nearest tube station is Warwick Avenue.
Atmosphere and Décor:
Décor is basic, simple, "rustic". The atmosphere, rather, is created by the boisterous Italian-speaking staff who jostle amiably between the closely packed tables, serving large pizzas, with a smile! A glowing wood-fired oven, in the basement, provides that authentic Italian touch, while there is outside seating for up to fifteen people, in good weather. The Red Pepper also runs a thriving take-away business from the same kitchen and service is fast, enthusiastic and knowledgeable.
Nosh and Drinks:
Pizza and Pasta form the basis of the regularly changing menu. Particularly delicious sauces and unusual toppings are an added bonus, although it has to be said that the ubiquitous cherry tomatoes make too frequent an appearance throughout the menu! Generous helpings of home-cooked, chargrilled black olive ciabatta with a fruity flavoured olive oil dip create a pleasant distraction, while waiting for your meal to arrive. Starters might include freshly prepared Tagliatelle with Hare Ragú, Grilled Aubergine with Mozzarella cooked in Olive Oil and Basil or Swordfish Salsa in Raspberry Vinaigrette.
Main courses focus on the mouth-watering array of thin, crispy-based pizzas, with interesting toppings, all cooked to perfection. Pizzas aside, other main course dishes, such as Sea Bass with Samphire or Roast Duck with Courgette Salsa provide tasty alternatives. There is also a good selection of nightly specials that concentrate on a variety of daily market-fresh meats and fish. Desserts are highly tempting. Try the Tiramisù or the traditional Almond and Lemon Tart. The wine list is all-Italian. Prices start at around £9.
The Experience:
For authentic Italian cuisine and a lively ambience, Red Pepper is a must.
Red Pepper has been reviewed by 5 users