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Daphne's
★ 4.0(1 review)Restaurant
elegantromanticlively
About the Vibe
Daphne's has been Chelsea's Italian neighbourhood favourite since 1964, and it's easy to see why. The space is genuinely beautiful—plush leather upholstery, vintage Murano chandeliers, and that magical conservatory at the back with peacock murals and lemon trees. The food delivers on the promise of authentic Italian cooking: think nutty pea risotto, massive portions of crab linguine, and tiramisu that actually tastes like tiramisu. It's the kind of place where you'll find everyone from tattooed rock stars to moneyed families all eating the same pasta dishes, which says something about its universal appeal.
Known For
- •pea risotto
- •crab linguine
- •conservatory with peacock murals
- •tiramisu
- •Murano chandeliers
Best For
date nightsspecial occasionslunch with friends
1 review
City InsidersEditorialMarch 30, 2026
Elegant Italian institution with character
Daphne's is the kind of Chelsea institution that manages to feel both timeless and current. The dining room is stunning—think plush leather, Murano glass, and painterly splashes of colour that make you feel like you've stepped into someone's elegant Italian villa. The conservatory at the back is particularly special, with those peacock murals and lemon trees creating this magical, almost theatrical atmosphere. It's not cheap, but for a special occasion or a proper date night, it's hard to beat.
The food is solidly good without being pretentious. The pea risotto is a standout—creamy, nutty, and loaded with fresh peas that actually taste like peas. The crab linguine is another winner, with generous portions of fresh crab and just the right amount of chilli to wake things up. Desserts are where they really shine: the tiramisu is massive and perfectly balanced, and the cheesecake with strawberries is a real treat. Service is attentive without being fussy, and the wine list covers the bases well.
It's not perfect—the menu can feel a bit overwhelming with so many options, and the bread basket could use more focaccia—but overall this is a place that delivers on its promise. It's become a magnet for all kinds of people (actors, bankers, families, tourists), which speaks to its broad appeal. If you're looking for a reliable, beautiful Italian restaurant in Chelsea that's been around long enough to have character, Daphne's delivers.