Ave Mario in Covent Garden is a colourful Italian restaurant from the Big Mamma Group, known for its theatrical interiors and lively atmosphere. I visited with my mum for a birthday lunch and ordered arancini, Mafaldine al Tartufo, two mocktails and tiramisu.
Having loved the truffle pasta at Circolo Popolare, I arrived with high expectations. Ave Mario delivered on atmosphere and presentation, but my experience of the food and service was more mixed. In this review, I’ll share what we ordered, what stood out and whether I would return.
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Atmosphere and Interior at Ave Mario
Let's start with the vibes, because there are plenty. Ave Mario is loud, proud, and unapologetically vibrant. Think bold colour contrasts, neon lights, and a bit of disco energy with a sprinkle of Italian flair. It's a feast for the eyes and, yes, totally Instagrammable. If you're a fan of aesthetics, you'll be snapping away before the starters even arrive.
What We Ordered at Ave Mario
Speaking of which, we began with arancini balls, and they were chef's kiss. Crispy on the outside, gooey on the inside, and packed with flavour. A very promising start. Then came the moment I was waiting for: the Mafaldine al Tartufo. Visually? Stunning. Portion? Generous. But flavour-wise, something was missing. The truffle just didn't sing lik
e it used to. Maybe it was my evolving taste buds, maybe it was an off day in the kitchen, but that luxurious depth I remembered was replaced with something more muted. Not bad by any means, just not magic. My lovely mum opted for a simple pasta with tomato sauce, and that was a win. Classic, comforting, and done right, because sometimes simplicity is the real flex.
Current Ave Mario Menu and Prices
The menu has changed since my visit. At the time of this update, Ave Mario’s official menu lists Le Nostre Mafaldine al Tartufo at £22, made with truffle sauce, mascarpone and fresh truffle. Ave Mario also offers a weekday set lunch from £17 and a theatre menu from £29. Dishes and prices can change, so check the latest menu before visiting.
Mocktails and Tiramisu
We sipped on two mocktails (refreshing and fruity, perfect for a spring day), and since it was my birthday, I couldn't resist the tiramisu. Soft, creamy, and lightly boozy, exactly what a birthday treat should be.
Service at Ave Mario
Now, about the service. It was okay. Not bad, not great, just somewhere in the middle. To be fair, the place was buzzing, so maybe the team was simply overwhelmed. That said, I do believe that service can make or break a dining experience, and in this case, it leaned a bit more on the forgettable side.
If you are comparing nearby restaurants, read my Sticks’n’Sushi Covent Garden review. It is also on Henrietta Street and offers another convenient option for a pre-theatre meal.
Ave Mario Covent Garden Practical Information
Address: 15 Henrietta Street, Covent Garden, London WC2E 8QG
Opening hours: Monday–Wednesday, 11:45 am–10 pm; Thursday–Saturday, 11:45 am–10:30 pm; Sunday, 11:45 am–9:30 pm
Cuisine: Italian pasta, Neapolitan pizza, antipasti and desserts
Best for: Birthdays, group meals, lively dates and pre-theatre dining
Booking: Reservations open 30 days ahead, although some tables are retained for walk-ins
Dietary information: Vegetarian and vegan options are labelled, but the restaurant does not currently offer gluten-free pasta or pizza
CHECK THE MENU & BOOK A TABLE →
If you want to explore more of the area’s food scene, this three-hour guided food tour visits Soho and Covent Garden while combining local history with stops for British classics and hidden gems. Food and drinks are purchased separately, so check the full details before booking.
CHECK THE COVENT GARDEN FOOD TOUR →
Would I Return to Ave Mario?
My Ave Mario experience was mixed. The colourful interior and lively atmosphere made the restaurant memorable, while the arancini and tiramisu were the highlights of our meal. However, the Mafaldine al Tartufo did not deliver the rich truffle flavour I remembered from Circolo Popolare, and the service felt average during a busy sitting.
I probably would not rush back, especially with so many other restaurants to explore in London. However, Ave Mario could still suit visitors looking for a theatrical Covent Garden restaurant for a birthday, group meal or pre-theatre dinner. Go for the atmosphere and striking interiors, but keep your expectations for the food and service realistic.
