Seemor
Ricco LondonB+Worth Trying
11 Russell Gardens, London W14 8EZ
· Bar, Restaurant, Cocktail bar
· 4.8/5 Google (120 reviews)
Reservations · Delivery · Takeout · Outdoor seating
High-energy Italian-led lounge with pizzas, pastas, and cabaret shows; great for celebrations and private events, with moderate pricing and attentive hosting.
Why it gets a B+ for overall quality
Ricco London delivers reliable quality through exceptional service attentiveness and solid food quality anchored by proper pizzas and creative pastas, making it competitive with the area's better neighborhood restaurants. However, moderate uncertainty exists due to review authenticity concerns—while owner engagement is substantive and negative reviews remain visible, the very high 5-star concentration suggests some positivity inflation. The hidden gem interior compensates for a modest exterior, and strong loyalty patterns confirm genuine appeal for celebrations and events, though it falls short of destination-level distinction.
Restaurant Summary
Inside a modest West Kensington facade lives a lounge that turns into a stage, where staff choreography meets cabaret and birthdays often become mini-productions. Guests rave about warm hosting and seamless coordination, noting, "They handled everything so we could just enjoy the night." The kitchen leans Italian with a playful streak—think proper Margherita alongside creative pies like Tokyo Teriyaki or a Balkan riff. The culinary approach leans contemporary and comfort-forward: familiar pizza-pasta roots with global topping detours rather than chef theatrics. Cocktails feature heavily, and most diners feel the pricing lands fairly for the quality and vibe. Families will do best earlier in the evening or at a private booking since late hours bring DJ-driven energy. Kids can comfortably share a Margherita, Cosacca, or fries, and staff have shown flexibility with simple requests. There is no explicit kids menu or gluten-free base listed, so plan ahead if you need specific accommodations.
At a Glance
- Welcoming hosting and coordinated event execution
- Lively cabaret shows with dancing after
- Solid pizza and pastas at moderate prices
- Entry may be refused during private events without booking
- Creative/fusion menu - not traditional comfort food
What Sets It Apart
- cabaret_show_dining
- customizable_event_screens
- fusion_pizza_creations
What People Love
- Feeling celebrated and looked after
- High-energy entertainment that invites participation
- Custom visuals that personalize events
- Pizza that tastes authentically Italian
Points of Concern
- Door policies can be strict during private functions; walk-ins may be turned away
- Older reviews cite small-plate era issues; menu has since shifted to pizza/pasta
- Pricing on private bar tabs drew pushback in a past event; clarify inclusions in advance
- Review patterns show signs of potential manipulation (very high five-star share and repeated staff names) which may not reflect typical diner experience
- For innovation level 7+, adventurous toppings and fusion pies may not suit conservative palates
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost£30-41 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- Value route: Arancino (£5-5.50) + Margherita (£12.99) + shared fries (£4.00).
- Seafood fan: Asparagus and Prawns Paccheri (£15.90) with a citrus-forward cocktail.
- Vegetarian-safe picks: Caprese Salad (£12.50), Four Cheese pizza (£16.99), Wild Mushroom Tagliatelle (£14.99).
Perfect For
- Milestone birthdays with shows and dancing
- Girls night out with cocktails and cabaret
- Corporate mixers near Olympia
- Casual date night with pizza and live music
Location Insights
Area: Residential pocket near Olympia with a mix of locals and event-goers; relaxed by day, livelier on show nights.
Safety: Generally safe, well-lit streets; typical West Kensington foot traffic.
Nearby: Near Olympia London event complex and Kensington high streets; draws private parties and neighborhood diners.
West KensingtonA sophisticated residential neighborhood with a mix of period architecture, quiet garden squares, and proximity to cultural amenities. The dining scene is refined, with a blend of upscale cafes, boutique restaurants, and classic British eateries.
Russell GardensAn exclusive and tranquil residential street characterized by elegant townhouses and a sense of urban sophistication, with a discreet and refined local atmosphere.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday12:00–11:00
Tuesday
Wednesday16:00–01:00
Thursday16:00–01:00
Friday16:00–01:00
Saturday16:00–01:00
Sunday16:00–00:00
Available: Reservations, Delivery, Takeout, Outdoor seating
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