Lina Stores is a legendary Italian delicatessen and restaurant group that has been a cornerstone of London’s culinary scene since 1944, specializing in authentic handmade pasta and imported regional Italian produce. Founded by “Lina,” a formidable native of Genoa, the brand began as a small deli on Soho’s Brewer Street and has since expanded into a globally recognized institution with locations across London and Tokyo. In 2026, Lina Stores continues to thrive, known for its signature pistachio-green and white Art Deco aesthetic, 30-egg-yolk tagliolini, and a commitment to traditional Italian hospitality. Whether you are visiting the original 80-year-old deli for a panino or dining at one of their vibrant restaurants in King’s Cross, Marylebone, or the newly established Manchester branch, Lina Stores offers a timeless bridge between historic Soho and contemporary Italian dining. This comprehensive guide covers the brand’s storied history, its 2026 menu highlights, location-specific details, and practical tips for securing a table at one of the UK’s most popular pasta destinations.
The History of Lina Stores: Since 1944
The story of Lina Stores is inextricably linked to the history of Soho itself. Established during the final years of World War II, it served as a vital link for the Italian immigrant community seeking a taste of home in post-war London.
The Original Founder: Lina arrived in London from Genoa and opened the deli at 18 Brewer Street to sell high-quality salumi, formaggi, and fresh pasta.
80 Years of Heritage: In 2024, the brand celebrated its 80th anniversary, maintaining the same storefront appearance and dedication to artisanal sourcing since its inception.
The Expansion: While the deli remained a standalone for decades, the first restaurant opened on Greek Street in 2018, marking a transition into a full-scale dining group.
International Footprint: The brand successfully expanded to Tokyo (Omotesando and Nihonbashi) in the early 2020s, proving that the Lina Stores “pistachio-green” magic has universal appeal.
The brand’s survival and growth are attributed to its “pure affection for guests” and a steadfast refusal to compromise on ingredients. Today, the group is led by a creative team that respects the original founder’s vision while introducing modern elements like subterranean aperitivo bars (Bar Lina) and sprawling outdoor terraces.
Signature Fresh Pasta and Menu Highlights
The heart of Lina Stores is its pasta. Every morning, chefs at each location prepare fresh dough using high-quality Italian flour and free-range eggs to create a variety of seasonal shapes.
The 30-Egg-Yolk Tagliolini
The most famous dish on the 2026 menu remains the Tagliolini al Tartufo. This rich, golden pasta is made with an exceptionally high egg-yolk count (30 yolks per kilogram of flour), creating a silky texture that perfectly carries the flavors of black truffle, butter, and Parmigiano Reggiano.
Regional Classics and Seasonal Specials
Gnudi Fritti: Fried ricotta and herb dumplings served with a spicy Calabrian chilli marmellata.
Pappardelle with Lamb Ragù: A hearty, slow-cooked meat sauce paired with wide ribbons of pasta and a hit of pecorino.
Ravioli di Manzo: Slow-cooked beef shin encased in thin pasta, often served with a red wine reduction and a touch of horseradish for depth.
Pici con Salsiccia: Thick, hand-rolled Tuscan-style pasta with fennel sausage and ‘nduja, providing a spicy, rustic experience.
The menu also celebrates the “Aperitivo” culture. Guests typically begin their meal with a Lina Stores Negroni or a Limoncello Spritz, accompanied by Nocellara del Belice olives and rosemary-salted focaccia.
London and International Locations in 2026
By 2026, Lina Stores has carefully expanded into strategic neighborhoods, ensuring each site retains a unique character while adhering to the brand’s iconic design language.
Soho: The Heart of the Brand
The Soho footprint includes the original Brewer Street Delicatessen and the intimate Greek Street Restaurant. Beneath the deli lies Bar Lina, a low-lit, moody aperitivo bar that has become a 2026 hotspot for late-night cocktails and Italian snacks.
King’s Cross: The Flagship Experience
Located in a heritage stable building behind Granary Square, the King’s Cross site is the group’s largest. It features a sprawling open kitchen, a dedicated deli counter, and a massive outdoor seating area that is highly sought after during the summer months.
New Frontiers: Marylebone and South Kensington
The Marylebone location (Marylebone Lane) spans two floors and serves as a community hub for all-day dining, from breakfast pastries to evening private dinners. In 2026, the South Kensington and Clapham branches have become essential neighborhood spots, catering to a mix of locals and tourists with a focus on family-friendly weekend brunches.
Fresh Pasta Production and Ingredients
Lina Stores distinguishes itself through a rigorous sourcing process that brings the best of Italy to the UK.
Milled Durum Wheat: The foundation of their dried pasta line is durum wheat from the mountain springs of Abruzzo.
Bronze Dies: Pasta is drawn through traditional bronze dies, which creates a rough surface texture that allows sauces to “cling” to the pasta more effectively.
Prosciutto di Parma DOP: Their cured meats are imported directly from Parma, matured for at least 18 months for a sweet, salty finish.
Specialty Cheeses: Beyond standard buffalo mozzarella, they stock rarities like Gorgonzola al Cucchiaio (extra creamy blue cheese) and hay-matured goat’s milk Caciottona.
This dedication to ingredients extends to their online shop, which in 2026 offers nationwide delivery of “Pasta Kits.” These allow home cooks to recreate the restaurant experience by providing the fresh pasta, signature sauce, and aged parmesan in a single package.
Practical Information and Planning
Visiting Lina Stores in 2026 requires some forward planning, especially for peak weekend dining.
Opening Hours: Most restaurants open daily from 12:00 PM to 11:30 PM. The Marylebone and King’s Cross sites open earlier (around 8:00 AM) for Italian breakfast.
Pricing: Small plates of pasta typically range from £9.00 to £18.00. A full meal for two with drinks usually averages £60.00 to £80.00.
Booking Policy: Reservations for up to 8 people are handled online. Tables are usually held for 90 minutes (for pairs) or 120 minutes (for groups).
Walk-ins: The Soho and King’s Cross locations maintain a portion of their seating for walk-ins, but wait times on Friday and Saturday evenings can exceed one hour.
Dress Code: Casual but chic. The interiors are highly photogenic, so many guests opt for “smart-casual” attire to match the Art Deco surroundings.
FAQs
Is Lina Stores expensive?
Lina Stores is considered moderately priced and offers excellent value for high-quality fresh pasta. Small plates allow you to try multiple dishes without a significant financial burden.
Can you buy the fresh pasta to cook at home?
Yes, you can buy fresh pasta by weight and homemade sauces at the Brewer Street, King’s Cross, and Marylebone delis, or order them online for nationwide delivery.
Do they have gluten-free options?
While pasta is their specialty, they offer gluten-free pasta alternatives at most locations. Always inform your server of any allergies before ordering.
What is the most famous dish at Lina Stores?
The Tagliolini al Tartufo (Truffle Tagliolini) is widely considered their signature dish and a must-order for first-time visitors.
Where is the original Lina Stores located?
The original 1944 delicatessen is located at 18 Brewer Street, Soho, London.
Do I need to book a table?
Booking is highly recommended, especially for dinner. However, they do save limited space for walk-in guests at the counter bars.
Is Bar Lina different from the restaurant?
Yes, Bar Lina is a subterranean cocktail and aperitivo bar beneath the Soho deli. It focuses on drinks and small snacks rather than full pasta courses.
Does Lina Stores have a shop in Japan?
Yes, there are currently two locations in Tokyo: Omotesando and COREDO Muromachi (Nihonbashi).
Is the restaurant vegan-friendly?
Yes, they always feature several vegan and vegetarian options, such as the Tagliolini with lemon and courgette (ensure you ask for no cheese for vegan).
Can I host a private event at Lina Stores?
Yes, the Marylebone and King’s Cross locations have dedicated spaces for large group bookings and private dining.
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