London’s appetite for fresh pasta specialists remains undimmed (Pastaio, Padella, Pastifico all spring to mind). Joining their ranks is this Covent Garden-fringe venture from William Ellner (of Joanna’s in Crystal Palace) and David Ramsey with ex-Locanda Locatelli chef Louis Korovilas in the kitchen whipping up the likes of pappardelle with kid goat and rosemary ragù.

Bancone will open on William IV Street at the beginning of May and promises fresh pasta dishes, alongside hyper-seasonal, simple small plates for sharing or for solo diners. A bar will cater for leisurely aperiviti and cicchetti too.

Like many of London’s pasta spots, the pricing here sounds very reasonable with dishes ranging from £6-£12. On the menu: Pappardelle, Kid Goat and Rosemary Ragù; Garganelli, salsa Genovese; Tagliolini, Clams, Seaweed and Purslane; Lamb neck ravioli, spring vegetables.  Many of the ragùs on offer will have been cooked and reduced for around 10 hours or more.

Seasonal arancini will change on a daily basis, with smaller plates like: Celery, anchovy, green olives, mint & bottarga or Charred & pickled artichokes, young rocket, Parmesan snow. There will be a wide choice of Italian wines by the glass, championing lesser known vineyards and growers.

This is William Ellner’s first foray into central London, although he comes from fine stock – his family created Joanna’s in Crystal Palace almost 40 years ago and he now runs the operation.

Keep an eye on social media for details of soft opening offers.