Southampton's beloved La Lupa restaurant famed for its pizza

For decades, the restaurant served diners from its High Street premises, building a following among local people and visitors.

Its rise to prominence began in the latter half of the 20th century, and by the 1980s it was an established part of Southampton’s dining scene.

La Lupa restaurant on Southampton High Street. (Image: Echo)

The restaurant occupied an old and characterful building, boasting a bright and airy interior that featured modern light-coloured tables resting on a tiled floor beneath classical-looking wall friezes.

The venue offered much more than just a meal, famously drawing in crowds with live music every Thursday night and performances from a resident magician every Friday.

This vibrant era of entertainment flourished when Tony Hajiantoni took the helm, bringing his extensive experience in the Southampton restaurant trade to build upon the eatery's magical appeal.

Meals at La Lupa became part of many occasions, including birthday celebrations, anniversaries and family gatherings.

La Lupa restaurant on Southampton High Street. (Image: Echo)

Its reputation also reached Southampton Football Club. Saints player Matt Le Tissier was reported as regarding La Lupa as one of his favourite places to eat.

Following a refurbishment that gave the space a bright new edge and changed the name to Lupa, black tables were introduced with a wooden-looking floor.

The dining room was always buzzing with conversation and staffed by extroverted, friendly Italian waiters.

Diners were particularly drawn to the restaurant's wonderful pizzas, which were freshly baked in a traditional wood-fired oven.

Lupa restaurant on Southampton High Street. (Image: Echo)

An open counter leading to the kitchen provided a captivating view, allowing guests to easily watch their pizzas being prepared and placed directly into the oven.

Customers were also drawn by the pasta, with the restaurant offering Italian food in a setting that recalled traditional trattorias.

Waiters and chefs helped create an atmosphere, while the dining room hosted groups and couples over years. Head chefs continued to prepare dishes as the restaurant moved through the mid-2000s.

La Lupa eventually closed, but memories of the restaurant remain among people who ate there. Its customers remember the food, the service and the occasions shared around its tables.

Lupa restaurant on Southampton High Street. (Image: Echo)

After closing around 2015/16, the restaurant became part of Southampton’s past, but its place in the city’s food history has not been forgotten. For many residents, La Lupa represents a time when a meal on the High Street became a lasting memory.

Do you have any fond memories, old photographs, or stories from your time visiting La Lupa? Please submit your experiences and pictures in the comments below or by emailing ian.crump@dailyecho.co.uk.