London’s vibrant culinary scene is set to welcome a significant new addition as Motorino officially opens its doors in Fitzrovia on October 20, 2025. This highly anticipated restaurant is the collaborative venture of two acclaimed figures in the UK’s food landscape: Chef Luke Ahearne, formerly of the Michelin-starred Mediterranean bistro Lita, and restaurateur Stevie Parle, known for his successful ventures including Town and Pastaio.
The Culinary Dream Team Behind Motorino
Motorino represents a powerful partnership, bringing together distinct yet complementary expertise. Luke Ahearne, an Irish-born chef, has carved out a reputation for his precise yet soulful approach to cooking. At Lita in Marylebone, he earned a Michelin star in under a year, showcasing a precise culinary style built on fire, flavour, and finesse, with a Mediterranean influence. His background includes esteemed kitchens such as Luca and Corrigan’s Mayfair. Ahearne’s cooking philosophy is rooted in celebrating great produce, cooking with joy, and a clear perspective on Italian food.
Stevie Parle, a prolific restaurateur and chef, brings a wealth of experience and a keen understanding of the London dining scene to this new project. His career began at iconic establishments like The River Café, Moro, and Petersham Nurseries, before he launched his own experimental restaurant, The Dock Kitchen. Parle has since established a portfolio of successful restaurants, including Rotorino, Palatino, CRAFT London, and most recently, the popular pasta restaurant Pastaio and the critically acclaimed Town. He is also a published author and a regular contributor to culinary publications.
Motorino’s Vision: A Modern London-Italian Experience
Motorino is set to offer a “London-Italian” dining experience, aiming to redefine what a modern Italian restaurant can be in the capital. The concept centres on utilizing the best seasonal produce, sourced from Stevie Parle’s trusted network of UK and Irish suppliers. While drawing inspiration from Italian culinary traditions, the chefs plan to interpret these through a contemporary lens, promising ambitious cooking with a sense of fun and an emphasis on quality and inventiveness. The name itself is a nod to Parle’s previous restaurant, Rotorino.
Ambiance and Atmosphere
Located at 1 Pearson Square in Fitzrovia, Motorino is housed in a substantial 150-cover space. The interior design is described as having a retro-futuristic vibe, reminiscent of Parle’s restaurant Town, but with a distinct aesthetic featuring high-gloss finishes, heavy lacquer, and low lighting that evokes a chic 1970s style. The restaurant aims for a lively atmosphere, designed to feel dynamic from day to night. Key features include a prominent bar and an open pasta bench, showcasing the craft involved in the kitchen.
Fitzrovia’s Evolving Culinary Landscape and What to Expect
Motorino’s arrival adds to Fitzrovia’s reputation as a dynamic dining destination, known for blending traditional charm with modern culinary innovation. The menu is expected to feature a range of dishes that highlight seasonal ingredients, with early mentions including items like Bluefin Tuna Carpaccio, Pappardelle with Wildfarmed beef ragù, and Irish Whiskey Tiramisu. Diners can anticipate a robust drinks program, with the bar overseen by Kevin Armstrong of the internationally acclaimed Satan’s Whiskers, featuring seasonal cocktails, classic martinis, and a selection of wines. Crucially, the restaurant has signalled an accessible price point, aiming to offer an ambitious dining experience without prohibitive cost.
Anticipation for a Promising New Opening
The collaboration between Luke Ahearne, a chef who has quickly achieved Michelin recognition, and Stevie Parle, a restaurateur with a proven track record in creating popular and stylish dining spots, makes Motorino one of the most anticipated restaurant openings of autumn 2025. Food news outlets have highlighted it as a major launch, poised to make a significant impact on London’s restaurant scene. As Italian food continues to trend, with a growing appreciation for authentic regional specialties and high-quality ingredients across London, Motorino is well-positioned to capture the city’s discerning palate and enthusiastic food community.
