A trattoria inspired by Pipero’s carbonara opens in London

by Ilaria Corona

At number 78 Highbury Park, Lupa opened its doors at the end of June, presenting itself with a clear identity: to be the first true Roman neighbourhood trattoria in London. So says Naz Hassan, the chef leading the gastronomic project, without hesitation in a reel posted to his Instagram profile. Alongside him are Ed Templeton and actor Theo James. The project is the result of the trio’s shared love for Rome and Italy. The venue exudes a welcoming, unpretentious atmosphere, with handmade benches, ceramic vases, and natural light.

The carbonara

Two years ago, Templeton recounts in the reel, he took part in a Carousel pop-up store in Rome. One of the unforgettable stops was Pipero (two forks from Gambero Rosso and one Michelin star), the Roman institution led by Alessandro Pipero, a longstanding benchmark for those seeking elegant and contemporary cuisine grounded in classical traditions. It was there, seated at the table, that Templeton tasted what he described as “a mind-blowing carbonara” from chef Ciro Scamardella. An experience so impactful it went on to inspire the carbonara recipe now featured on his restaurant’s menu.

Pure Roman inspiration

At Lupa, the carbonara honours the Roman tradition. In fact, the entire menu revolves around the traditional cuisine of the Eternal City. The reel also showcases the porchetta – reinterpreted with a contemporary touch – and the tiramisu, made with mascarpone cream prepared by an Emilian family, the Mambelli, artisanal dairy producers whose dessert cream (60% mascarpone, 40% milk) adds an authentic flair to the tiramisu.

In a city like London, where hundreds of Italian restaurants can be found, Lupa doesn’t aim to be just another spot, but rather a true corner of Rome. And that carbonara, inspired by Pipero, is a brilliant way to begin.

Photo credit: Instagram @lupa.restaurant