Emilia’s Crafted Pasta, Aldgate

Tucked away behind Aldgate East station lies Emilia’s Crafted Pasta, a modern restaurant that prides itself in making authentic fresh Italian pasta. Its clean chic instantly evokes a modern East London loft flair – the perfect place to sit down for their new £10 express lunch menu and forget about work.

Start with burrata, served with bread drizzled in olive oil alongside sweet balsamic vinegar. Lunch specials include the cesarecce pasta in homemade creamy walnut sauce with chestnut mushrooms and toasted pugliese ciabatta on the side. The portion is generous and the pasta is rich yet light. All pasta is served al dente which means it will be firm to the bite in typical Italian fashion. For dessert try Emilia’s special: vanilla ice cream with biscotti crumbled on top, best when combined with a strong caffe latte.

Besides the food being fantastic, the staff are laid back and professional, making you feel welcome and relaxed. If you’d like to try some of the dishes at home, Emilia’s Crafted Pasta also hosts masterclasses teaching you the techniques and execution of their signature dishes.