Marcus Kitchen and Bar picked up two ‘highly recommended’ prizes at the UK Italian Awards, reports Alexandros Ioannides

Marcus Kitchen co-owners Marco Guarino (left) and Davide (right) with their awards

The owners of a restaurant in Enfield Town are celebrating twin prizes picked up at a glitzy award ceremony.

Marcus Kitchen and Bar was ‘highly recommended’ in award categories for ‘best chef’ and ‘best restaurant’ in London during the UK Italian Awards 2026 event held recently at the Marriot in Mayfair.

It follows on from Marcus Kitchen having been named best restaurant in the south-east at the same awards in 2024.

Chef Marco Guarino’s dish that was picked out by judges was a stuffed squid with fregola sarda, prawns, beetroot and goat cheese, described as a “balance of land and sea flavours, combining the natural sweetness of the seafood with the earthiness of beetroot and the creaminess of goat cheese, all brought together with the texture of the fregola”.

Restaurant co-owner Davide said: “It’s truly an honour to be recognised among such incredible talent, and I’m very proud of what our team has achieved.

“Winning a place in the top three Italian restaurants in London and top three Italian chefs in the UK is something really special for us, and it motivates us even more to keep pushing forward and delivering the best authentic experience.”

Marcus Kitchen & Bar was launched during the height of the Covid-19 pandemic in December 2020, an especially challenging time for the hospitality industry.

Despite this, the restaurant has grown into one of North London’s most well-regarded local restaurants, built on a foundation of authentic, traditional Italian cuisine and a strong connection with the local community. Its menu features authentic Neapolitan and southern Italian dishes.

Davide added: “The biggest thanks go to our guests, friends, and family for their continued support; this achievement wouldn’t be possible without them.”

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