La Doc - Italian Restaurant — Restaurant in London

I visited this restaurant with a couple of friends after it was recommended to me, so I decided to give it a try. Since I hadn’t booked a table, I had to wait an hour, which was understandable.

The menu looked promising, but the service was quite disappointing—basic, slow, and lacking a warm welcome. As a first-time visitor, I didn’t feel particularly valued.

The food was decent overall. The carbonara was authentic and true to Italian tradition. The fonduta with polenta was a highlight—rich, comforting, and perfect for when you need a hearty meal. However, the tiramisu was a letdown. It was too watery, lacked a strong coffee flavour, and wasn’t creamy enough, which made it quite disappointing.

Considering London’s dining standards, the food was average at best. However, what really bothered me was the 15% service charge added to the bill. While I have no issue paying for good service, this experience felt more like fast food service than that of a proper restaurant with service value. Of course, it’s optional, but I shouldn’t have to ask to remove it when the service was clearly subpar. I prefer to leave this review to inform...

I was ready to go sleep, sadly heading home after a bloody too long day at work, a light catching my tired eyes, La Doc with the huge smile of the Italian welcoming l warm atmosphere, came to my attention the cleanliness and the familiar ambiance, who am I to say No to a Campari Spritz? The chef delighted my soul with an awesome focaccia, I’ve been here before, I couldn’t spend the night as I already did several times, ‘cause is school day tomorrow but, what a pleasant evening after an aperitif. La Doc of Gaetano is not just and amazing restaurant, maybe the best in the area, serving delicious Italian Food and flavorful hot dishes in a cold climate, but it’s the perfect spot to charge your batteries, and listen to jazz live music as well so..if you’re up for a Drink or a glass of Italian wine, (maybe two!!) alcool-free options and vegan friendly nibbles available, there’s nowhere else to go, really!

You’re never gonna find a better place in the UK with the secret prices that the n.1 wine club has to offer.

Book in advance, it’s gonna get tough to get in, sooner than later.

Mamma Mia!!! Che...

We often go to La Doc in Balham because the food is always outstanding — fresh, authentic, and full of flavour. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming every time we visit. Bruno and Gaetano create such an authentic Italian vibe that makes every visit special. Recently, my husband organised a surprise birthday party for me there, and it was absolutely amazing! The staff, especially Bruno and Gaetano, are so professional, friendly, and genuinely caring. The food was delicious as always, and all my friends and guests loved their meals. The evening was organised perfectly ,even better than I could have imagined. The combination of the atmosphere, food, wine, and service made it an unforgettable night.

I highly recommend La Doc to anyone who loves real Italian food, great wine, and warm...