Circolo Popolare

The story

Part of the Big Mamma group, with sister branches in Manchester, Paris, Barcelona, Madrid and Berlin, Circolo Popolare sits off Rathbone Square behind a calm, architectural exterior. Inside, bottles of spirits and wine climb the walls, plants hang overhead, and flowers and warm lighting fill a surprisingly spacious room built around a long Mediterranean table. A garden-like terrace, framed by plants, sits outside. Ingredients come straight from small producers in Italy, from Puglian burrata to DOP San Marzano tomatoes. Wood-fired Neapolitan pizzas, including half-and-half versions, share the menu with handmade pasta such as carbonara and truffle mafaldine, grilled meats, antipasti for sharing, and desserts like tiramisu and a striking lemon pie. Cocktails run large and playful, from the Saltburn margarita to a peach drink served in a huge glass.