Clapper Italian Deli and Butchery — Review by Eating With Tod
London, United Kingdom — Italian
This secret Italian deli and butchery in Clapham, owned by Chef Alexandro Glapelia, delivers exceptional quality Italian cuisine with standout dishes including their acclaimed rotisserie chicken and Tuscan-style dry-aged steaks. The restaurant combines a traditional Italian deli and butchery with a casual eating space where diners can enjoy retail-priced wine with their meals.
What was great: Rotisserie chicken described as top three in London with incredibly tender meat and rich 48-hour reduced chicken stock gravy, high-quality Italian dry-aged steaks cooked Tuscan style with buttered thyme, in-house fresh pasta, retail wine pricing policy
What could improve: Nothing mentioned
The Dishes
The meal began with their signature rotisserie chicken, which the reviewer ranked among the top three chickens in all of London. The bird is marinated in authentic Italian herbs and spices, then served alongside a deeply reduced chicken broth that has been simmered for 48 hours to develop its complex flavors. The chicken breast itself was extraordinarily tender and juicy, earning the reviewer's humorous observation that it would be soft enough for a baby without teeth to bite. The establishment also offers leftover chicken transformed into sandwiches that are described as insane.
The steak night experience showcases their dry-aging fridge selection of Italian cuts. Diners get to choose their preferred steak, which is then cut to their desired thickness and generously finished with buttered thyme. Served Tuscan style with the bone positioned upright, the steak delivered robust beef flavor while maintaining impressive juiciness throughout.
The Experience
Located in Clapham, this is positioned as a secret restaurant within a full-service Italian deli and butchery operation. The venue offers both retail items to take home and a casual eating space. A rotating spit operates at the front, creating visual appeal and authentic rotisserie traditions. The atmosphere emphasizes quality Italian ingredients and preparation methods, with the addition of monthly steak nights adding an event-like experience.
Value and Pricing
A standout feature is the restaurant's wine policy, allowing diners to bring or purchase bottles at retail prices rather than restaurant markups. This significantly enhances value for wine enthusiasts looking to pair with their meals.
Notable Moments
The chicken was so soft and so tender a baby with no teeth could bite it.
If you can't take a date to Kamate, enjoy.
The Verdict
This hidden gem represents exceptional Italian dining within a working deli and butchery setting. Best suited for those seeking authentic Italian meats and preparations, the restaurant particularly appeals to rotisserie chicken enthusiasts and serious steak lovers willing to explore quality Italian beef. The retail wine pricing makes it an attractive option for those who appreciate wine pairings without the typical restaurant markup.