Established in March 2016, Mora is a small, independent restaurant in Leytonstone, East London, run by Chef Carlo Usai.
After many years’ experience in the hospitality sector, especially in upmarket restaurants in Central and West London, Carlo and his wife Silvia decided to start their own business and, with the initial help of a friend, Luca, developed the concept of a cosy, relaxed and welcoming restaurant serving hearty Italian food.

Focused on core values such as quality, taste and sustainability, our mission is to bring delicious recipes to life using seasonal and quality ingredients sourced from small, artisan producers as much as possible.

We specialise in fresh pasta, handmade daily in small quantities in our kitchen, but we also offer a nice selection of modern Italian dishes, with a touch of Sardinian cuisine.

Our homemade food is accompanied by an ever changing selection of natural, organic, biodynamic wines from small Italian producers, local craft beers and sustainable soft drinks and spirits.

All the team at Mora is fundamental in delivering a good service to the diners. Our hardworking and passionate kitchen crew matches our smiley and skilful front of house team led by our manager Silvia. We all work together to make customers feel welcome, treating them with great care and respect while gracefully serving an excellent meal in a friendly and inviting atmosphere.

Come and find us slightly off the beaten track, on the south side of Leytonstone High Road, not far from Stratford and the Olympic Park, in a location easily reachable from Leyton, Forest Gate and Wanstead.

You won’t get disappointed!

Since Covid times we have also been providing a take-away service (collection only) and set up a little deli shop corner within the restaurant, offering some delish speciality.

Our chef

Chef patron of Mora is (Gian) Carlo Usai, originally from Guspini, a small town near Cagliari, in the South of Sardinia.

His culinary career began early on, while studying accountancy and economics: his deep interest and passion for good food made him take on several apprenticeships and summer jobs in various restaurants across Sardinia for a few years until he eventually decided to move to London back in 1996.

He gained significant hands on experience in the years, perfecting his skills and seeking opportunities to further develop his own creativity through different positions in various London restaurants. His most significant experiences have been as sous chef at the historical Caldesi Restaurant in Marylebone, chef de partie at Browns in Canary Wharf during its opening in 2000, Sous chef at Gatti’s for over 5 years, and then head Chef (and subsequently Executive Chef) at Edera in Holland Park. He was also appointed executive chef at 11 Park Walk in Chelsea during its set up and opening, while still managing the kitchen at Edera for over 10 years.

After so many years’ experience, he dreamed to open his own restaurant close to his home in East London, a cosy and welcoming place where creativity, quality and care drive the show.

Mora in the media

11 London restaurants that are romantic — but not schmaltzy – Claire Finney, The Standard
World pasta day: Best pasta restaurants in London, from Lina Stores to Flour & Grape – Claire Finney, The Standard
Comfort Food – a documentary by Elena Dante
So you’ve never been to…Mora, Leytonstone High Road – Leytonstoner
Mora – a Sardinian delight in Leytonstone – The Eastern Eater
A Local’s guide to North East London by Zeren Wilson for Eater
Mora – Roman Road – Bitten & Written
Mora Restaurant Review – Leytonstone gets a Sardinian sensation – London Evening Standard
Where to eat and Drink in Leyton and Leytonstone – Londonist
Mora Restaurant, Leytonstone – Me, myself and Pie
A few thoughts on Mora – Leytonstoner