Rocca

When in Dulwich Village I would say that Rocca is the best eating option for lunch or dinner. We walked past there on a Saturday afternoon in September and resolved to go back next time we were in the area.
They managed to fit us in on a busy Sunday afternoon almost as soon as we walked in the door. We shared a bruschetta to start and I had a tagliatelle bolognaise for mains which was delicious. They did mess up our order which meant that we had to wait 45 minutes between our starter and main course which wound me up but looking around the restaurant ours was an atypical experience. The bill came to roughly £22 (we had no alcohol) and the food was so good that we will be back next time we are in Dulwich.

Great night out. Truly delicious and flavorful dishes. Brilliant service and cosy setting. Perfect for family meals out or chilling with large group of friends. Also romantic enough for couples. I love that it is also very equipped for familoes with young children and babies. Lots to choose from on the menu. Definitely go back.

I love this place. Visited once and was very happy with service, food and prices. I would describe it as upmarket Italian similar to Carluccios but more focused on few dishes which are well crafted. Atmosphere superb. Very good prices

Very average limp salad and watery pasta sauces. Pleasant service and good location don’t makeup for the poor quality and small portions. Avoid.

Rocca is a sister restaurant to the one on Old Brompton Road in South Ken. I went there for a girly dinner with a friend who lives locally and we had a lovely evening. It looks inviting from the outside and the enticing smell of garlic and fresh tomato entices you in.
We didn’t book, and as it was a busy Saturday night, we had to wait a few minutes at the bar until a table was ready, but the staff were very accommodating and pleasant. The atmosphere was warm and livelywith a sort of ‘posh rustic charm’. It felt a bit like a larger, busier version of someone’s comfortable kitchen-​diner. Even though it was very busy we were served quickly and efficiently.
I had the lamb shank (with rosemary new potatoes and spinach) and my friend had the steak with chips and spinach. Both were excellent. I’ve tasted better steaks (Gaucho!) but it was still well cooked. My lamb was pretty much perfect and I recommend ordering some veg or salad on the side if you like a more balanced meal as the spinach, although nice, wasn’t plentiful.
For dessert, we tucked into a cioccolata (moist, mousse-​like layers in between chocolately cake) and a panna cotta (vanilla-​flavoured and of a perfect consistency). Both light and well-​sized. The pasta dishes and pizzas that other diners were having looked and smelt incredible. I’ll definitely be back next time I’m in the area.