A 55-minute express menu in central Knightsbridge with sweeping views of the most photographed department store in the world Harrods, priced at £41 per person? It’s a yes from us. That means you can dine at the Italian restaurant directly opposite for under £100 for two when ordering a starter and main each from their express menu.
We’ve raved about Alba before here; the viral views, the truffle carpaccio and let’s not forget the Rocher desserts that glide through the restaurant on trolleys. During a busy lunch service, everyone who ordered one had their camera out for that picture-perfect tableside slicing moment. One thing to note: it isn’t included in the express lunch deal. That said, I saw couples pop in just for the Rocher dessert alone, so you know it’s a winning dessert.
Let yourself be transported to sunnier days (because let’s face it, it has rained every day this year in London) with cuisine worthy of an Amalfi Coast escape. The lunch in 55 minutes express menu champions locally sourced ingredients and delivers flavour without the time commitment.
The restaurant itself is light and airy, with large windows perfect for people-watching below. A handmade Venetian floor, open kitchen and immaculate Loro Piana furniture make it clear no expense was spared – it simply oozes Amalfi-style glamour.
First things first: the Italian bread selection. Homemade breadsticks, chunky fresh bread made for olive oil dipping and light, fluffy focaccia topped with sun-dried tomatoes.
As we were celebrating the end of the week, we ordered a couple of cocktails. Tea and coffee are included with the set menu, but the cocktails here are an experience in themselves. The Amalfi Spritz arrives in a hand-painted ceramic lemon vase, while Tommy’s Calabrita – one for spicy margarita lovers is served Alba-style in a sculptural inverted cone glass.
Can you even dine at an Italian restaurant without ordering burrata? We certainly can’t. Alba’s is packed with fresh flavours, served in a juicy tomato sauce perfect for mopping up with focaccia, alongside heritage tomatoes. Other standout starters include the Beef Fillet Carpaccio topped with fresh truffle and the Pink Prawns Carpaccio with burratina.
Onto the mains.
The showstopper has to be the Aubergine Parmigiana…ultimate Italian comfort food. Think bubbling tomato sauce, layers of aubergine and perfectly melted mozzarella and parmesan. Other highlights include Tomato Gnocchi “Sauce Della Nonna” with basil, Amalfi Tagliolini with Mazara prawns, bottarga and lemon sauce, Sea Bass with red potatoes, Italian corn-fed roast chicken, and Veal Ragù ravioli.
Dessert is another reason to visit Alba. While not included in the express menu, it’s worth considering. The Panna Cotta with strawberry compote was silky and melt-in-the-mouth, yet surprisingly light and we’re told it’s only on the menu for a limited time (one that absolutely deserves extending in our eyes). The Affogato, served with a boozy shot of Belvedere Dirty Brew Coffee, is equally indulgent.
Before disappearing into the Harrods Food Hall to recreate a little Italian magic at home, make a pit stop at the bathrooms – stocked, naturally, with Acqua di Parma. The scent of the Italian Riviera lingering in Knightsbridge is the final touch.
Lunch in 55 Minutes menu is available every weekday from 12–3pm (last seating at 2:15pm)
70 Brompton Rd, London SW3 1ER
