A place run by Italians, exclusively for Italian kids. If you are not a white European, you will be treated second class here, even if you are wearing Brunello Cucinelli or Loro Piana. Even without the mild racism and/or bias, I would give the place 3 out of 5 stars for the generally awful service from cranky staff. As a local, I can walk into Chiltern Firehouse or AOK Kitchen any time, and have a reasonable chance of getting a table. They know me and welcome me. I have lived in Marylebone for a dozen years and without a doubt this place has the worst customer service. Many discerning locals would concur.
As locals, we supported this place during the pandemic, after it opened and when it was empty. I used to buy £50-60 per bottle wine from them 2-3 nights a week. And the moment things got better, they choose to serve ethnic Italians.
Now we could call weeks in advance, and because we are not Italian, we won't get a reservation. Within one second of asking for a reservation, and without checking their calendar, the staff will tell you, "We are full". This has happened to at least six different Marylebone people on multiple occasions. During each of these encounters we have detected mild racism in some cases, and at least, preferential treatment towards ethnic Italians in each case. Every night, 90% of the crowd is Italian. Most of the positive reviews are from Italians, which sort of supports my assertions above.
Last night, I was there with friends and had the most embarrassing experience and rude & hostile treatment from the staff - steps away from where I have lived for a dozen years. After we had a few drinks there, we were told we couldn’t stand and drink in the place. Meanwhile a party with 20 Italians was raging with everyone standing and milling around. They kicked us out so their Italian friends could continue partying.
Hate to put it in these terms, but this is my experience, which I am reporting factually. I’m never going there again. I will give my money to other nicer places in Marylebone.
P.S. The vapid, clueless and factually incorrect response to the review from the owner, only helps to...
Read moreI recently hosted my birthday celebration at the Italians Wine Bar, and I can confidently say it was the best choice possible! The experience was nothing short of amazing :)
The wine selection at Italians Wine Bar is truly incredible, catering to a variety of tastes. The ambiance is cozy and inviting, making it the perfect setting for a classy celebration. What truly set the tone for the evening was the jazz music playing in the background, creating an atmosphere that was both lively and sophisticated.
I want to express my thanks to the exceptional manager, Francesco, who went above and beyond to accommodate me and my friends. His warm hospitality truly made our celebration memorable. Francesco's dedication to ensuring a positive experience for his guests is commendable.
While every celebration has its moments, we did encounter a slight issue with the billing. With the number of people attending, there were some mistakes and overcharging. However, what truly impressed me was Francesco's approach to the situation. His welcoming personality made it easy for me and my partner to speak with him honestly about the issue. Francesco took the time to review everything thoroughly, and the very next day, the problem was resolved seamlessly.
I am sincerely grateful to Francesco and the entire team at Italians Wine Bar for their outstanding service and commitment to customer satisfaction. Thanks to them, my birthday celebration was truly special. I wholeheartedly recommend The Italians Wine Bar to everyone in Marylebone – it's a fantastic choice for a delightful evening filled with great wine, music, and warm...
Read moreThe Italians... I must say a truly Delightful Experience. This charming wine bar is hands down my favorite spot in London.
From the moment you walk in, you are greeted with a warm and welcoming atmosphere. The staff is incredibly friendly and attentive, making me feel like a part of the family. The inclusive and kind nature of the staff is truly what sets this wine bar apart from any other I have visited. Not to mention the quality of the products and wine there, simply outstanding! Every glass of wine I tried was expertly selected and perfectly paired with the food selection. The menu has something for everyone, from rich and bold reds to crisp and refreshing whites, you'll find a wine that suits your palate. The ambiance of the bar is also worth mentioning. The cozy and intimate atmosphere is perfect for a night out with friends or a romantic date. The decor is cool and stylish, with a classic Italian feel that transports you straight to the heart of Italy.
Overall, I cannot recommend The Italians enough. The welcoming and inclusive staff, combined with the exceptional quality of the products and wine, make it a must-visit for anyone who loves wine bars no matter if you are Italian or not. Trust me, once you visit The Italians, you won't want...
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