Scalini in Kensington and Chelsea

I had heard about Scalini's when I worked in the City and since my previously favourite Italian restaurant, "Montpeliano", had closed down because of COVID-19 I thought I'd would take my good friends who were staying with us on a visit from Holland here instead. Obviously I had high expectations but sadly these were totally misplaced! We arrived on time at 7pm and I was surprised at the total lack of warmth, the "friendly welcome" was non-existent, with in fact I got the impression that we were an inconvenience! The greeting from the Maitre D was by way of a growl and we weren't asked if there was somewhere we would like to sit but directed to a small table "out of the way" and, instead of a waiter pulling the chair out for us to take our seat, we were ushered into the corner and told "you're sitting here"!The meal was OK but nothing "special", the wine list was extensive but clearly geared towards the most expensive and, like the food, MASSIVELY overpriced.There were two particular things that really annoyed me - firstly as we sat down I politely asked the (I think) assistant Maitre D where he was from (I always do this with restaurant staff, partly out of pure curiosity but also to "break the ice") and was met with the rude reply "That's for me to know and you to find out" (on reflection I should have walked out there & then) and secondly that when we had finished dining and had ordered coffee we weren't offered a small "something on the house" (a limoncello or similar) which, given that our bill was well in excess of £300, I would have thought an appropriate gesture to "new customers" as is the way in virtually every Italian restaurant I visit.When presented with the Bill I requested that the "Optional Gratuity" (12.5%) be removed as a small protest which was met with dismay and almost anger.We left and stood on the pavement outside waiting for a cab and then, to my shock, the Head Waiter came outside and confronted me, asking what was wrong and why had I not paid a "Tip". I had a great deal of pleasure in telling him "That's for me to know and you to find out"!Essentially an experience I would not wish to repeat, and so, regrettably, I cannot give "Scalini's" anything other than an "AVOID" recommendation. Honestly, a very great shame!Tim Casey.

Very bad experience. Quality of the food really low, even though the staff was very nice.We were a group of 10, 4 adults and 6 kids (ranging from 12 years old to 4). On the reservation, where I have explained that we were going also with kids, we were asked to pay in advance 400 Pounds - we were ok with that. But cherry on the top, when the bill arrived the total was much less than that the 400 paid in advance and the order was not to give us the normal payback. Incredible!!! Concluding, food quality very low and this type of polices are in my perspective (without previous notice) really bad.Not recommend at all.

My family has been coming to this restaurant for 20 years & is firmly one of our favourite places to eat for lunch or dinner, amazing food & service, the staff are wonderful, a spot we have seen a few celebrities over the years, love that it is a place where you can go smart/casual or dress up either is ok

Great restaurant, oozes atmosphere and great service. It's well run and great fun to be in. Had 2 mains and 2 soft drinks £80, service charge included on bill of 12.5% . Parked outside on a Sunday so that's free.

Scalini is a classic. A trusted go-to Italian restaurant in London. The atmosphere is laud back and elegant. Would love to see some new additions to the menu 🤩

Super place. Amazing staying power over the years. Always like to come back. AAA

One of the best Italian restaurants in London. You never leave scalini unsatisfied or not full. Been going to this place for 9 years and it never disappointed me. Dessert is not their speciality though

My favorite place ever.. The best food ever .. you never know what to choose from the spaghetti lobster to the sole to the veal Milanese and the most delicious asparagus .. so we orde all!!The waiters are super fun, quick and agreeable.. thank you for always giving me the best experience !

Excellent! Old school staff, old school Italian menu, great wine list. The menu has some surprisingly 1980s classics - prosciutto and melon anyone? (Its’s good, try it!) Surprisingly affordable if you stay away from the wine menu - but they do half bottles. Perfect venue for a relaxed Sunday lunch. It’s busy, so you’ll need to book.

You need to book a table in advance. The lobster pasta was amazing they divided it to 2 plates. And tried the veal nodino with butter and rosemary it was delicious definitely will order it again.