I still remember heading down to Carnaby for Pastaio’s soft opening when they launched their first restaurant in 2017 (you can read my review here). Ever since they’ve then opened up a stall at Market Hall West End, and now another new branch in Westfield (Shepherd’s Bush). So since that’s kind of around the block for me, I thought why not pay this new Pastaio Westfield branch a visit!
I originally wanted to hit up their two-day soft launch where they’re offering free pasta. But the queue had been humongous for both days so, instead, I waited to visit Pastaio Westfield on the first day of their official opening.
Without the free pasta offer, the queue has disappeared (unsurprisingly)! Nonetheless, it’s still very busy for an early Friday evening.
The Pastaio Westfield branch has a more colourful and almost eccentric interior compared to their Carnaby branch. It’s also bigger in space too as it spans across two floors. Similar to their Carnaby branch, the restaurant has these long bench tables for a communal dining style and you’ll find staff weaving through these long tables, each with an iPad strapped on their arm for taking orders.
As for the menu at Pastaio Westfield, it is bigger than what I remembered at Carnaby’s. As it’s January, on top of their regular menu, there’s also a fully vegan menu available.
30 Egg-Yolk Tagliolini (£9)
I went for something simple – the Egg Yolk Tagliolini with Jersey Butter and 30-month Parmesan.
The pasta itself was cooked to an al dente and springy texture. Flavour-wise, it was a bit better than I remembered from their Carnaby branch. Though I wouldn’t say it tasted absolutely spectacular.
In terms of portions, it is on the smaller end. I must admit I was left feeling still slightly hungry afterwards. I’d suggest either ordering two if you’re feeling hungry or definitely order a couple to share among friends!
As I quickly finished up my pasta, I asked for the bill. However, it did take forever for that to come. I guess it’s still early days into their opening so the service, in overall, was not as great and attentive as I’d hoped. My experience at their Carnaby soft launch was actually better than Pastaio Westfield when it comes to service.
Anyway, all in all, I’m happy about this new addition to Westfield. However, I feel Pastaio Westfield definitely still has more to improve on. It’s still good to know there’s a pasta option now at the mall though!
RATING:
-
Food
-
Atmosphere
-
Service
-
Value
Halal Status
Not halal – but plenty of Vegetarian and Pescatarian options
Tel: 020 8629 2268
Instagram: @pastaiolondon
Website: https://pastaio.co.uk/
Nearest station: Shepherd’s Bush
