Tucked away just off The Kings Road, in Duke of York Square, Polpo is a hidden gem that effortlessly blends the rustic charm of Italian cuisine with a modern flair. From the moment you walk through the door, the atmosphere envelops you in a warm, welcoming embrace, striking the perfect balance between casual and refined. It’s the kind of place where you can easily imagine spending hours enjoying good company, delicious food, and expertly crafted drinks. And if you’re a fan of exceptional Italian flavors, Polpo offers a dining experience that’s nothing short of spectacular.
The menu at Polpo is a celebration of traditional Italian fare, but with a contemporary twist that elevates each dish. If you’re in the mood to start with something light yet bursting with flavor, the arancini are an absolute must. These golden, crispy rice balls are stuffed with a creamy, rich filling that oozes with delight as you break through the crispy shell. The balance of textures — crunchy on the outside, velvety on the inside — is perfection in every bite.
Another perfect appetizer that should not be missed is the stuffed olives. These aren’t your average olives; each one is carefully packed with a flavorful filling and marinated to achieve just the right level of brininess. The stuffed olives are an ideal pairing to the arancini, offering a lovely contrast of flavors that ignite the palate and set the stage for the rest of your meal.
For seafood lovers, the octopus with fava bean mash is an absolute standout. The octopus is cooked to perfection: tender, with just enough char to enhance its natural sweetness. The smooth fava bean mash underneath complements the octopus beautifully, creating a dish that’s as comforting as it is sophisticated. It’s a perfect example of Polpo’s knack for transforming simple ingredients into something extraordinary.
As you make your way through the menu, the fritto misto is another must-try. Lightly battered and fried to golden perfection, this dish features a variety of fresh seafood, each piece crisp and delicious. The combination of shrimp, squid, and white fish offers a delightful contrast in textures and flavors. Paired with a squeeze of lemon and perhaps a dip into the accompanying aioli, it’s the type of dish that’s hard to stop eating once you start.
While seafood takes center stage on many of Polpo’s dishes, the menu also offers some mouthwatering meat options. The rump steak is a standout example. The steak is cooked to perfection, with a crisp, flavorful crust that locks in all the juiciness of the meat. The artichoke and pepper sauce combination adds a fragrant, touch that complements the rich flavor of the meat. Accompanied by seasonal vegetables, this dish feels like a celebration of the best ingredients of the season.
To end the meal, the gelato and tiramisu are nothing short of exceptional, each offering a sublime experience that perfectly balances tradition with artistry. The gelato, velvety and rich, delivers a burst of flavor in every bite, with each scoop seeming to melt effortlessly into the palate, showcasing the quality of its ingredients. Paired with the tiramisu, a true masterpiece of Italian indulgence, the layers of espresso-soaked ladyfingers and mascarpone cream strike the ideal harmony between sweetness and coffee depth. Together, these desserts offer a delicate yet indulgent conclusion to the meal.
Throughout the entire meal, the service at Polpo is impeccable. The staff is friendly, knowledgeable, and attentive without being intrusive, offering recommendations when needed and ensuring that every aspect of your dining experience is flawless. Whether it’s explaining the origins of a particular dish or ensuring your wine glass is never empty, the team at Polpo strikes the ideal balance of professional yet personable.
Polpo isn’t just a restaurant; it’s a celebration of Italy’s rich culinary heritage, thoughtfully presented with modern flair. It’s the type of place where every dish tells a story and every bite feels like a little moment of indulgence. Whether you’re looking to enjoy a relaxed evening with friends, celebrate a special occasion, or simply enjoy great food in a vibrant setting, Polpo delivers an experience that never disappoints.
For anyone looking for a taste of Italy with a contemporary twist, Polpo is an absolute must-visit. The combination of stellar food, impeccable service, and a warm, inviting atmosphere make it a dining destination that will keep you coming back time and time again.
