A month ago we wrote about the little corner of Loseby Lane that locals keep quietly recommending. Since then, plenty of you have been in, and plenty have been in touch. So here's a proper catch-up on what's changed, what you told us, and what's coming next.
What Readers Loved About the Original Story
If you missed the first piece, you can read the original story of our Loseby Lane hidden gem before diving in. The feedback surprised us. People weren't just after menu details. They wanted to know about the atmosphere: the exposed brickwork, the low lighting, the feeling of stepping off a busy street into somewhere calmer.
Three things came up again and again:
- The setting. Many of you said it's the most characterful Italian restaurant in Leicester city centre, tucked away from the shopping crowds yet only minutes from the Cathedral and Jewry Wall.
- The handmade pasta. Fresh dough, simple sauces and no shortcuts.
- The relaxed pace. Nobody rushes you here. A long lunch or a slow Friday dinner is exactly the point.
Plenty of readers also asked whether this was somewhere for date night, birthdays or catching up with friends. It works for all three. If you're planning a visit, our Loseby Lane Leicester page explains how to find us and what the area has to offer.
New This Month at Merchant of Venice
We've been busy. Here's what's changed since the article went live.
A refreshed seasonal menu. Autumn is when Italian cooking really shines, so we've introduced more slow-cooked, comforting dishes. Think creamy risotto with wild mushrooms, ragù that's been gently simmering for hours, and roasted squash gnocchi with sage butter. If you've been searching for the best Italian restaurants Leicester has to offer for a cosy evening, this is the menu for it.
More choice for every diet. Several of you asked for more vegetarian and vegan options, so we've expanded both. Our chefs now offer pasta and pizza bases that don't feel like an afterthought.
A better lunch offer. Working in town and craving a proper restaurant Italian Leicester lunch rather than a sandwich at your desk? Our new midday menu is quick enough for a lunch break but still cooked to order.
Small touches. Fresh flowers on the tables, a re-worked dessert list (the tiramisu stays, don't worry), and a few new Italian digestifs behind the bar.
You can see the full list of dishes on our menu page, which we update whenever the kitchen changes something.
Upcoming Wine Tasting Evenings
This is the news we're most excited about. After many requests, we're launching a series of wine tasting evenings in the restaurant.
Each session is relaxed and jargon-free. You'll try a small flight of Italian wines, each paired with a bite from the kitchen, while we talk about where the wine comes from and why it tastes the way it does. No experience needed, just curiosity.
Expect to explore:
- Crisp whites from the north
- Rich reds from Tuscany and Piedmont
- A dessert wine to finish the evening
If you're searching for something different to do in Leicester on a weeknight, or a thoughtful gift for a wine-loving friend, these evenings fit the bill. Places are limited, so we'd suggest you reserve a table through our booking page to hear about dates first.
Thank you to everyone who has visited, shared the story or left a kind word. We'll see you on Loseby Lane.
Frequently Asked Questions
Right here on Loseby Lane. We're independent, central and a short walk from the main shopping streets and Leicester station.
Yes. Let your server know about any allergies or preferences and the kitchen will guide you.
Absolutely. Small parties and birthday dinners are welcome, though we'd recommend booking ahead, especially at weekends.
Yes. Spaces are limited to keep things friendly and intimate.
That's for you to decide, but readers tell us it's the combination of honest cooking, a genuinely warm welcome and a setting you won't find anywhere else in the city.
Thank you to everyone who has visited, shared the story or left a kind word. We'll see you on Loseby Lane.
