Pulia opens in London’s Borough Market

Apulian cuisine benefits from its region’s rich soil, the balanced Mediterranean climate and the traditional cooking practices that are passed down through the generations – secrets that are now to be shared with Londoners.

Warm and welcoming yet sophisticated, the 60-cover Pulia restaurant gives diners the opportunity to enjoy regional antipasti such as Frisella Bruschetta with Capocollo Ham, Rocket and Balsamic Vinegar and Burrata from Andria with Cured Ham.

Starters are followed by equally moreish mains such as Traditional Beef Sausage Spiral from Bari and Cuttlefish Stuffed with Breadcrumbs, Parmesan and Parsley.

These will be complemented by an array of fresh pasta to include Hand Rolled Strozzapreti with Fresh Grilled Tuna, Aubergine and Pachino Tomato Sauce and gourmet pizzas topped with the likes of Stracciatella cheese, spicy ‘Nduja or black truffle.

Conscious of the need for everyone to share a meal together, Pulia’s menu also includes vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options.

There’s also an impressive two or three course lunch menu to choose from. We loved the Insalata Invernale starter – a healthy mix of potatoes, celery, black olives, red onion, sundried tomatoes, artichoke and aubergines in generous glugs of oil.

For the main course, go for the Cavatelli al Brasato Podolico – fresh Cavatelli pasta with slow cooked braised “Podolico” beef. It’s delicious comfort food in a bowl.

Make it three courses with a very tempting ice cream selection.

This dazzling riot of colour, aroma and flavour can be enjoyed against a contemporary backdrop, where the muted colour palette and generous use of natural materials such as wood and stone mimic the southern Italian landscape. A variety of table sizes allows for sharing, whilst the large central bar is the perfect spot to enjoy an aperitivo and some wholewheat taralli (deliciously crunchy little snacks from Puglia made with white wine, flour and olive oil) or traditional focaccia served piping hot from the oven.

Rounding off this irresistible experience is a concise wine list mainly comprising local vintages and an extensive cocktail collection. Not one to be missed.