After a very long work week, I relished a night to myself in the heart of London for some light window browsing and bite at one of my favorite solo spots, Bancone in SoHo. (There are several others).

Seated at the back bar, with an excellent view of people watching on the busy street, the restaurant itself was heaving for a Thursday night. Sat next to a very obnoxious American, speaking incredibly loudly to her friend and commenting on calories throughout, I vowed to keep silent and keep the soldiery of my accent anonymous. Here’s a life hack, don’t go to a popular Italian and comment on nutrition content, thanks.

I didn’t. Mostly I was there for the delectable artichoke reminiscent of those in Rome, served with a generous spoon of a bright Romanesco sauce.

I let the waiter choose my pasta as I couldn’t decide, and ended up with (not shockingly their most expensive) the braised beef stuffed ravioli. While nice, this definitely was a sharing plate because after one or two you kind of get the point and just want another artichoke.

To end indulgence, I also tried the fiore di latte gelato with a thick splash of olive and sea salt. Very nice, not too sweet and mad me wanting to make my version at home again soon.

Bancone never fails for what can be a fast paced, anonymous in a crowd feeling will dinner and shopping respite. Definitely, I’ll be back again.