Ave Mario is a vibrant Italian trattoria in Covent Garden, London, known for its bold 1980s-inspired decor and Florentine palazzo ambiance. The expansive 700-square-meter space features six-meter-high ceilings, a central bar adorned with 3,500 bottles, and a lively atmosphere. The menu, crafted by Head Chef Andrea, includes signature dishes like 'biga' pizzas, giant carbonara ravioli, and La Gran Scaloppine alla Milanese made with high-welfare rose veal. Desserts such as the towering 60cm Gelato Tower and a decadent three-chocolate mousse are also highlights. The restaurant offers 295 seats across three distinct areas and two terraces, accommodating both intimate dinners and large gatherings.
What visitors single out
Liked
- Delicious and Authentic Italian Cuisine The restaurant serves high-quality, authentic Italian dishes, including fresh pasta and pizza, with standout options like truffle pasta and creative flavor combinations.
- Exceptional Service Many reviewers praise the friendly, attentive, and professional service provided by the staff, who go above and beyond to ensure a pleasant dining experience.
- Fun and Lively Atmosphere Ave Mario offers a vibrant and energetic dining experience, enhanced by its unique and quirky decor, making it a memorable destination for a fun night out.
- Memorable Desserts The desserts are a highlight, with options like the giant gelato cake and lemon pie, which are both visually impressive and delicious, perfect for celebrations.
- Unique and Themed Dining Areas Ave Mario features multiple uniquely decorated dining areas, each with its own distinct theme, from a Tuscan trattoria to a 70s disco, offering a visually stimulating experience.
Criticised
- Basement Seating Issues Some reviewers have noted unpleasant odors in the basement seating area, particularly near the restrooms, which can negatively impact the dining experience.
- Can Be Overcrowded and Rushed The restaurant can get very crowded, leading to a rushed atmosphere, especially during peak hours, which can detract from the dining experience.
- Inconsistent Service While many praise the service, some reviewers have experienced slow or inattentive service, indicating potential inconsistencies depending on the server or how busy the restaurant is.
- Potential for Long Wait Times Due to its popularity, there can be significant wait times, even with a reservation, and some reviewers have experienced disorganized seating procedures.
- Pricing and Extra Fees Some reviewers found certain items overpriced, and additional fees such as app-related payment fees can add to the overall cost, making it less budget-friendly.
The longer read
Ave Mario is a popular Covent Garden restaurant known for its lively atmosphere, distinctive decor, and authentic Italian cuisine. Booking in advance is highly recommended, as the restaurant is frequently packed and queues form outside. The restaurant features different themed areas, from a classic Tuscan trattoria to a modern, vibrant space, including a memorable bathroom. The decor and plating are particularly noteworthy. Some reviewers found certain seating areas, like the basement, less desirable due to noise or occasional odors.
The food receives generally positive reviews, with the truffle pasta, pizzas, and the lemon meringue pie being frequently praised. Standout dishes include the Mafaldine al Tartufo (truffle pasta), and the Dancing Queen pizza. The portions are generous, and the restaurant uses high-quality ingredients. Several reviewers recommend the non-alcoholic cocktails and the unique selection of Italian soft drinks. Some found the food rich and oily. A few reviewers found some dishes overly salty or the drinks too watered down with ice.
Service is generally considered friendly and professional, with many reviewers highlighting specific staff members who provided exceptional service. However, experiences can be inconsistent. Some reviewers reported slow service or inattentiveness, particularly when the restaurant is busy. A few reviewers mentioned issues with the waiting process or seating arrangements upon arrival, but these issues were often resolved by the staff. The staff is helpful and accommodating, especially for special occasions like birthdays, providing surprise desserts and singing in Italian.
The restaurant is considered a good value for the quality, though some items may be overpriced. While most find the prices reasonable for central London, be aware of extra charges such as app-related fees for paying the bill. The restaurant is well-located for pre-theater dining, but some reviewers cautioned that reservations might feel rushed if opting for a full three-course meal. Overall, Ave Mario is recommended for those seeking a fun, vibrant Italian dining experience in London, with the understanding that the popularity can sometimes lead to inconsistencies in service and atmosphere.
A synthesis of third-party reviews supplied by Mindtrip travel index. Not written by Breaks.
Getting there
| Mon | 11:45 - 22:00 |
|---|---|
| Tue | 11:45 - 22:00 |
| Wed | 11:45 - 22:00 |
| Thu | 11:45 - 22:30 |
| Fri | 11:45 - 22:30 |
| Sat | 11:45 - 22:30 |
| Sun | 11:45 - 21:30 |
Against the neighbourhood
Rated 4.8 against a median of 4.5 across the 94 places to eat we hold for Covent Garden, and the most-reviewed of them.
Booking
Still deciding?
- What type of dishes and specialties does Ave Mario offer on its menu?
- How suitable is Ave Mario for group dining or special celebrations?
- Do you need to book a table in advance at Ave Mario in London?
- What is the general ambiance and decor like at Ave Mario?
- Does Ave Mario provide vegetarian or vegan choices on their menu?
Where this comes from
Venue records are drawn from the Mindtrip travel index, which aggregates place data and review signals from Google Places, Tripadvisor and booking providers. Ratings are reproduced per source rather than merged into a single number. Distances to nearby venues are computed here as great-circle distances between the published coordinates, not walking or driving routes. Comparison figures are medians computed across the venues we hold for the same neighbourhood or city.
Source: Mindtrip travel index, captured 2026-08-21.
What this page cannot tell you
- Descriptions and review summaries are supplied by the source index and are reproduced as published; they are not independently verified by Breaks.
- Ratings and review counts are point-in-time snapshots and drift constantly. Check the venue's own site or the rating provider for the current figure.
- Opening hours change seasonally and at short notice. Confirm with the venue before travelling.
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- Straight-line distances understate real walking distance, especially where a river or railway sits between two points.