Last December, on a busy afternoon in Covent Garden, I planned a visit to Capilungo restaurant. Honestly, the city’s hustle melted away the moment we started eating. Every bite made me feel like I was enjoying the flavours of sun-drenched Puglia, right in the heart of London!
Nothing could have felt more comforting. My friend and I savoured our meals, chatting quietly, and before long, the restaurant was quiet enough to feel like our own little Puglian hideaway!
Today, DOYOUSPEAKLONDON invites you to enjoy Capilungo, where every bite is a little celebration of southern Italy.
Capilungo history: from Lecce to Covent Garden
Capilungo isn’t just another Italian spot, it’s like a little love letter to Puglia.
It all started in 1991 as a family business in Lecce, and now it brings that same warmth and hospitality straight to Covent Garden.
By day, it’s a relaxed café/restaurant, perfect for brunch or a coffee catch-up.
By night, it turns into a wine and cocktail spot, all while keeping the focus on fresh, authentic ingredients and that unmistakable southern Italian charm.
And honestly, you can't leave without trying a Pasticciotto, the traditional shortcrust pastry filled with creamy goodness, a real treat straight from Lecce!
All-day brunch at Capilungo Covent Garden
My friend and I went for brunch, which Capilungo serves all day.
We started with the Smoked Burrata, served with poached eggs, taralli crumble, and red pepper pesto (pictured below, on the left). It was creamy, slightly smoky, and just really comforting. One of those dishes you don’t want to rush!
Then we tried the Basil Shakshouka, with baked eggs, spiced tomatoes, stracciatella, and toasted bread, perfect for dipping and sharing (picture above, right). So delicious!
Of course, we couldn’t skip dessert!
We went for a classic Tiramisu, soft and rich with just the right coffee flavour, and the famous Pasticciotto di Lecce, pistachio version. Decadent and indulgent, it’s easy to understand why this pastry is such a big deal back in Puglia!
They were quite rich and very sweet, so we didn’t manage to finish everything, but a few bites were more than enough to feel satisfied!
Capilungo’s prime spot in London
Tucked right in the heart of Covent Garden, Capilungo is perfectly placed for both locals and visitors.
While Long Acre buzzes with energy, the restaurant itself feels like a calm, cosy escape, with friendly staff and attentive service that make you feel right at home.
Whether you’re catching up with friends, enjoying a slow brunch, or just popping in for a coffee and a Pasticciotto, it’s easy to forget you’re still in London!
I hope you’ve enjoyed this little taste of Italy! If you’re planning to book a table at Capilungo soon, don’t forget to share your experience on DOYOUSPEAKLONDON!
Check out my other restaurant recommendations in and around London here!
Everything you need to know about Capilungo:
Capilungo Covent Garden
28-29 Neal’s Yard, WC2H 9DP
Visit Capilungo Website
