Taverna Trastevere: Best Carbonara in London near Clapham Junction

There’s something about finding a restaurant that transports you somewhere else entirely. Taverna Trastevere, tucked away on St John’s Hill in London, is one of those spots. The moment you step inside or better yet, take a seat outside, you feel like you’ve stumbled across a little slice of Rome. I had been hearing about this place for quite some time. Every review, every word of mouth recommendation, was glowing. So when I finally made the trip, I came in with high expectations. Spoiler: Taverna Trastevere definitely delivered!

Background About the Taverna Trastevere

Just a short 10-minute walk from Clapham Junction station, Taverna Trastevere sits in a lively but charming stretch of the neighbourhood. It’s known first and foremost for authentic Roman cuisine, and that’s what sets it apart. The name itself hints at its inspiration, Trastevere, a picturesque district of Rome famous for its cobbled streets, trattorias, and vibrant food culture.

The restaurant has both indoor and outdoor seating, giving you the choice between a cosy interior or fresh air with a street-side view. On sunny days, the outdoor tables are absolutely worth it. And don’t worry if London’s weather decides to turn, there are heaters outside to keep things comfortable. Taverna Trastevere is a popular spot, so it’s often busy, but that just adds to the energy. It feels like you’re part of a buzzing Roman eatery where everyone’s here for the same thing, good food and good times.

What is the experience like at Taverna Trastevere?

We decided to sit outdoors since the day was sunny and inviting, and I’m glad we did. The buzz of the street, the chatter from nearby tables, and the flow of food from the kitchen all contributed to the atmosphere.

The staff here deserve a mention. They were friendly and approachable, not in a forced way but in a natural, easy-going manner. They took the time to explain the menu and even mentioned you could swap the type of pasta in the carbonara for a homemade Tonnarelli. It’s those little touches of thoughtfulness that elevate an experience.

Another detail that stood out was how quickly the food came out. Despite the restaurant being full, the service was efficient without ever feeling rushed. It allowed us to enjoy the rhythm of the meal while still leaving plenty of time to relax and soak in the atmosphere.

What is the food like at Taverna Trastevere?

Roman cuisine is hearty, soulful, and unapologetically flavourful, and Taverna Trastevere nails it.

Starters

We began with the Fritto misto (£14), a plate filled with Roman suppli, amatriciana parcels, potato croquette cacio e pepe, and carbonara parcels. It was the perfect introduction to the meal. Each bite had a distinct character, from the gooeyness of the cheese to the clever little pasta-filled parcels. I loved that nothing felt greasy or overly fried, instead, it was crisp, light, and full of flavour.

The Melanzane alla parmigiana (£14) stole my heart though. This dish was a true highlight. Imagine the warmth and comfort of a lasagna but built with soft, melt-in-your-mouth aubergine instead of pasta sheets. The tomato and parmesan layers balanced richness with freshness, making it one of those dishes you keep going back to with your fork long after you thought you were done.

Mains

For the main course, we tried the Tonnarelli alla carbonara (£20). This was my favourite. I hadn’t realised you could swap the standard rigatoni for Tonnarelli, but it turned out to be the best decision. The homemade pasta had the perfect bite, and the creamy sauce clung beautifully to each strand. The crispy pork cheek added both texture and a salty punch that cut through the richness. This was carbonara as it should be, simple, indulgent, and absolutely satisfying. It took me back to Rome, Italy.

Next was the La Piccante pizza (£17). I’ll admit I wasn’t expecting it to be quite so large, but the generous size was a pleasant surprise. Topped with spicy Calabrian salami and nduja, it had just enough kick to keep things interesting without overwhelming the palate. The base was thin yet sturdy, the mozzarella soft and melty, and the salami did most of the talking flavour-wise. It was a pizza you’d happily share but might secretly want to keep all to yourself if you’ve really hungry.

Desserts

To finish, we went for the classic with the Tiramisu’ classico (£8). Light, fluffy, and balanced, none of that overpowering sweetness you sometimes find. It was the kind of tiramisu that leaves you smiling rather than feeling heavy.

We also ordered the Millefoglie con frutti di bosco (£10), which provided a completely different experience. The crunch of the pastry layers, the richness of the cream, and the freshness of the berry sauce created a refreshing end to the meal. If the tiramisu is comforting, the millefoglie is uplifting, a nice yin and yang balance of desserts.

What is the price like at Taverna Trastevere?

For London dining, especially of this quality, the pricing feels more than fair but it is on the pricier side for pasta. Starters hover around £14, mains between £17 and £20, and desserts around £8–£10. With most dishes falling between £15 and £25, you get authentic Roman food. Considering the portions, quality of ingredients, and overall experience, it’s good value.

Final Thoughts about Taverna Trastevere

Taverna Trastevere lived up to the hype. From the friendly service to the hearty Roman dishes, it’s the kind of place that makes you want to come back before you’ve even left. Whether you’re in the mood for pasta, pizza, or just a glass of wine with something small, this is a spot that hits the mark.

It’s not just about the food (though the carbonara alone is worth the visit). It’s about the atmosphere, sitting outside on a summer evening, sharing plates, and feeling, for just a moment, like you’re dining in the heart of Rome.

If you haven’t been yet, add it to your list. And if you have? Well, chances are you’re already planning your next visit.

I left with a full stomach, a happy heart, and a strong desire to come back soon.

Highlights and Tips

• Best known for their carbonara
• Atmosphere: Relaxed, lively, with both indoor and outdoor seating (heaters available outside)
• Service: Friendly, helpful staff who know the menu well
• Recommend dishes: Melanzane alla parmigiana, Tonnarelli alla carbonara, Tiramisu’ classico
• Accepts both cash and card
• Food served quickly despite being busy
• Outdoor seating highly recommended on a nice day

Taverna Trastevere Details

• Location: 112 St John’s Hl, London SW11 1SJ
• Opening Hours: Mon – Fri (12–3 pm, 6–10 pm); Sat (12–10:30 pm); Sun (12–10 pm)
• Price: £15 – £25

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