Opening in 1898, for over a century, the unit was a pub called the Wolsey Arms, before becoming the iconic yellow and orange Annie’s Bar – which closed in 2014. Another Mediterranean restaurant, Smoky Corner opened in its place last year, before reopening as Giotto in June 2022.
Giotto have only recently taken on the space in Kentish Town. The Italian restaurant has another branch in New Oxford Street, but took advantage of the opportunity to expand to the area when they heard from the previous owner of Smoky Corner, Tural, that he wanted to step back. Tural remains a Partner at the new restaurant.
“I love all the food,” all the fish, steak, pasta and pizza on the menu! “You can't go wrong with any dish, because our recipes are solid. They’re really straightforward and our chef has been working with us for 20 years.”
“I know lots of people and it's like a small village. Everyone knows each other and people are lovely,” says Tural.
“We get as much as we can supply from local businesses,” including neighbouring shop Phoenicia and ice cream from Caliendos. Giotto encourages others to do the same to help local independent shops stay in business!
