Lina Stores King's Cross

Classic Italian done well

Egg Yolk Tagliolini, Vacche Brune Parmigiano, Butter, Black Truffle

There are so many Italian restaurants in London, I have lost track of how many new opening in 2019 alone. One of the big trends in Italian food is the rise of pasta focus concept, all kicked off by Padella in London Bridge which now gained cult status. Lina Stores itself has a rich history, it started off life at a simple deli that sells imported sauces, ham and dry goods, before launching a pasta restaurant in 2018 nearby which became an instant hit. Clearly, everything is going well for Lina Stores, as it has just launched another restaurant in King Cross. The venue, as well as the menu, is much bigger than its Soho site. Besides pasta, it also offers a small selection of mains and a wider choice of antipasti. 

Tuna, Caperberries, Cetriolini, Salsa Verde, Anchovy Dressing

Pappardelle, Ox Tail Ragu, Ferrandina Olives

The classic tuna with caperberries was colourful and fresh, I enjoyed the boldness of the pickled cucumber that offered a nice contrast to the fattiness of the tuna. The pappardelle with Oxtail ragu was heavenly, it was rich and packed with bold meaty and umami taste. The pasta was cooked perfectly with a chewy texture, I could not fault the dish at all. The grilled prawns was another dish that was faultless, cooked to the perfect temperature, the prawns were so moist and well seasoned, with just the right level of smokiness. The braised beef cheek dish was tender, it absorbed all the beautiful flavour from the red wine sauce and the meat cut like butter.

Grilled Prawns, Schiacciatella, Burnt Lemon

Braised Beef Cheek in Barolo, Ceps, Polenta

I attend Lina Stores King's Cross on the first day of its opening, but it did not feel like a soft launch at all, as everything was running pretty smoothly. The cooking was not creative at all, it was just classic Italian cooking done in such a fine manner. The pasta was especially great, and I would rate it as good as many restaurants back in Italy. My only issue is the portion size is a little too small for the cost they are charging for, as all the pasta dishes are tapas sizes. 



Food 3.5/5


Average cost without drinks and services:
£40

20 Stable St, Kings Cross, London N1C 4DR

https://www.linastores.co.uk/kings-cross/