"This trattoria around the corner from Farringdon station is so comfortable in its own skin, it imparts a natural feeling of scialla into all its diners. A birthday celebration at Brutto should start at lunchtime, end at closing, and feature more £5 Negronis than you have fingers. With mahogany tones and gingham tablecloths topped with bowls of vodka penne, this room feels like Tuscany through Frank Sinatra’s eyes. Look, this isn’t New York. Nobody wants to eat dinner at 10pm, so get organised. Reservations are released 14 days in advance at 9:30am and, if that doesn’t come off, push notifications for cancellations are recommended. That said, Brutto’s bar is one of the best around. Walk in and linger with a Negroni." - jake missing, rianne shlebak, sinead cranna, heidi lauth beasley
