London Street Food Tips in 200: Trattoria Enoteca, Mercato Metropolitano

Some people say they don’t really ‘get’ pasta. I can’t understand this, but it’s also fine by me because I have quite a lot of time for it, and them not eating it leaves more for the those of us who do. And because I like it, I write quite a lot about it.

So for the third in LSF’s new series called ‘London Street Food Tips in 200 words,’ here is part 303 in my pasta writing adventures. Introducing… Trattoria Enoteca at Mercato Metropolitano.

La Trattoria del Mercato, Mercato Metropolitano

Trattoria Enoteca, Mercato Metropolitano (pic: Victoria Stewart)

Where: Mercato Metropolitano (Elephant & Castle / Borough)

What drew you in: A sign with 4 of my favourite words on it: fresh pappardelle with ragu; the warmth of the market on the wettest Saturday of the year so far; my determination to spot a gem amidst the huge range of stalls.

Who’s behind it: Two guys in finance who own the neighbouring wine shop. Chef Massimo used to work under Francesco Mazzei at Michelin-starred Sartoria, so he knows his pasta.

What else is on the menu: Fresh meats & cheeses, parmigiana, lasagna.

Pappardelle al ragu di salsiccia at Trattoria Enoteca, Mercato Metropolitano (pic: Victoria Stewart)

What does the food do to you: Gently melts away London for a brief moment and allows you to get lost in the moment. Am I overdoing it? Go try it for yourself, then… Top seat is at the righthand counter for a view over the Mercato, and (if you’re lucky) some chef tidbits.

Closing thoughts: Any local Italian residents will be over the moon about this stall, plus there’s incredible fresh ricotta sold at the deli in the other half of the market. Also, Mercato bills itself as a sustainable food project for the community. Is it, though? Who do they determine is ‘the local community’?

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LSF