Tucked away in the charming streets of Marylebone, known for its elegant Georgian architecture, independent boutiques, and vibrant café culture, Lita has swiftly become a top destination for food lovers in London. This Mediterranean restaurant in London brings an exciting blend of seasonal ingredients, rustic charm, and expertly crafted dishes to the city’s dining scene. With a menu that embraces the heart of southern European cuisine, Lita is set to redefine what it means to experience Marylebone dining experiences.
Located at 7-9 Paddington Street, Lita’s ambience perfectly matches its culinary philosophy – warm, welcoming, and effortlessly stylish. Whether it’s the intimate seating arrangement or the theatre of an open kitchen, every detail has been thoughtfully curated. This new hotspot has already gained attention among best new restaurants in Marylebone, and for good reason.
The Vision Behind Lita: Insights from Restaurateur Daniel Koukarskikh
Behind every exceptional restaurant is a passionate visionary, and Daniel Koukarskikh restaurateur is the driving force behind Lita. With previous experience in shaping some of London’s most sought-after dining spots, including Wild Tavern in Chelsea and Casa do Frango, Koukarskikh envisioned a place where traditional Mediterranean recipes could meet modern culinary artistry.
Drawing inspiration from Mediterranean hospitality, his goal was to create a dining experience that feels both authentic and innovative. Lita is not just about food; it’s about reviving the essence of shared meals, encouraging guests to explore different textures, flavours, and cooking techniques that have stood the test of time.
Meet the Chef: Luke Ahearne’s Culinary Journey to Lita
Heading the kitchen is Chef Luke Ahearne, whose impressive background has played a key role in shaping Lita’s remarkable menu. With years of experience at Michelin-starred restaurants, including The Clove Club and Corrigan’s Mayfair, Ahearne has honed his craft in delivering produce-driven, seasonal dishes that celebrate bold, natural flavours.
At Lita, Ahearne brings a refined yet unpretentious approach to cooking, where fresh ingredients and careful preparation take centre stage. His expertise ensures that every plate showcases the best Mediterranean techniques while maintaining the comfort and warmth that define the restaurant.
A Glimpse into Lita’s Mediterranean-Inspired Menu
The menu at Lita is a testament to Mediterranean excellence. Each dish tells a story, highlighting a mix of tradition and innovation. Whether you’re indulging in fresh seafood, flavourful roasted meats, or perfectly charred vegetables, every bite offers a journey through the rich culinary landscapes of Spain, Italy, and Greece.
Highlights from the menu include:
- Whole Cornish turbot – A prime example of expert cooking, served with a delicate balance of acidity and depth.
- Wood-fired meats – Succulent cuts grilled to perfection using open-fire cooking London techniques.
- Seasonal small plates – A rotating selection of dishes showcasing the freshest market ingredients.
Pair these with an impressive wine list, featuring standout selections like a robust Spanish Rioja, a crisp Italian Vermentino, and a smooth Greek Assyrtiko, carefully chosen to complement the bold Mediterranean flavours., featuring small biodynamic producers, and you have a meal that’s nothing short of extraordinary.
The Art of Open Fire Cooking: Lita’s Signature Approach
One of Lita’s most defining elements is its use of open fire cooking London, a technique that enhances natural flavours by infusing dishes with a distinctive smoky depth, setting it apart from conventional grilling methods used in other restaurants., which adds a distinct depth of flavour to every dish. The theatre of the open kitchen allows diners to witness the art of grilling and roasting, as chefs carefully control the heat to bring out the best in their ingredients.
Cooking over an open flame is a tradition deeply rooted in Mediterranean culture, and Lita’s approach pays homage to this age-old technique. From seared seafood to charred seasonal vegetables, every item on the menu benefits from the smoky, rich notes that only fire can provide.
Fun fact: The inspiration for Lita’s open fire cooking comes from ancient Mediterranean kitchens, where communal meals were cooked over flame, fostering a deep connection between food and storytelling.
Design and Ambience: The Aesthetic Appeal of Lita’s Interior
Beyond its food, Lita captivates guests with a design that seamlessly blends rustic charm with modern elegance. The open layout, featuring natural materials like wood, stone, and terracotta, evokes the feeling of stepping into a welcoming Mediterranean home.
The restaurant’s large windows and open doors allow for an airy, sunlit atmosphere during the day, while at night, warm lighting creates a cosy, intimate setting perfect for relaxed dining. The open kitchen adds an interactive element, giving guests an immersive view of the culinary craftsmanship behind every meal.
What Diners Are Saying: Reviews and Testimonials of Lita
Since opening its doors, Lita has received rave reviews, boasting an average rating of 4.7 stars across major platforms like Google Reviews and TripAdvisor. from critics and food lovers alike. Many have praised its thoughtful menu, exceptional service, and inviting atmosphere. Some of the standout comments include:
- The Guardian – “A stunning new addition to Marylebone dining experiences, offering some of the best wood-fired dishes in London.”
- Time Out London – “A vibrant, exciting spot that captures the essence of Mediterranean hospitality.”
- TripAdvisor diners – “An unforgettable experience with bold flavours and perfectly cooked meats.”
With an ever-growing reputation, Lita is well on its way to becoming a must-visit spot for food lovers in London.
