Li Veli, Covent Garden

Revive the summer with authentic Pugliese cuisine and Li Veli wines at a traditional Southern Italian bistro in Covent Garden.

Why.../  Puglia, the 'heel' of Italy, is enjoying its time in the sun. Hugely trendy at the moment, this region of Southern Italy is staunchly proud of its heritage and traditions, and Li Veli Winery and Bistro on Long Acre translate the simplicity of its cuisine into their lively, fresh, seasonal menu. Who.../  Two families have come together to found Li Veli Winery and Bistro. One with over forty years experience of wine-making in a region with a long vine-growing tradition. The other the owners of the San Domincio Hotel Group. Between them they offer typical Apulian food and wine in a setting inspired by the beautiful land and culture of a lesser known part of Italy. Menu.../  Personally recommended by the maitre d', Nicolas, we chose Apulian 'Frisella' bread, served on a wholewheat bagel with organic sweet tomatoes and doused in San Domenico olive oil; red tuna tartare, with citrus peel, red onion and capers; orecchiette (“little ears”, after their shape) with melted anchovies and toasted breadcrumbs; and the aubergine parmigiana with smoked caciocavallo cheese. For dessert the typical Italian tiramisu didn't disappoint, and Borgo Egnazia pistachio ice cream drizzled in olive oil was certainly unusual, but worked beautifully. Drinks.../  We are not only here for the food, but also the artisan wine bearing the Li Veli name. The Masseria Li Veli region on Puglia's Salento plain produces a range of wines featuring 'classic' grapes, reviving the traditional Puglian grape varieties. The wines are fresh and flavourful, having absorbed much of the minerals from the soil, and are also available to buy in the onsite wine and speciality food shop. Vibe.../  A summery Italian feel in the heart of Covent Garden. We visited and here's why you should go…/ Vegetarians and carnivores alike will love Li Veli's menu. From a seleciton of Stuzzichini and Antipasti for sharing (and not!), to homemade pasta and parmigiana, with a few meat dishes for those with deeper pockets, theatre-goers and tourists can choose their favourite dish either al fresco, at the bar or in the smart dining room. For pre-theatre drinks, mid-shopping lunch or a relaxing long evening with friends. Where.../ 

Li Veli Winery & Bistro, 69 Long Acre, London, WC2E 9JS

www.liveli.co.uk

Opening times: Mon-Thurs 11am-11:30pm / Fri-Sat 11am-12am / Sun 12pm-10:30pm