SECOND HOUSE Kitayama

The much-loved eggplant, bacon and spinach spaghetti is an obvious choice for a first pasta order at SECOND HOUSE Kitayama. Diners who often choose it sometimes add tarako and tuna, or opt for a large serving. These are optional extras, so you can keep to the classic dish or adjust the toppings and portion to suit your mood.

Another reported order pairs carbonara—with egg, cheese and bacon—with a topping of mentaiko. Whether you stick with a familiar combination or customise your pasta, there is plenty of choice. The menu also includes Japanese-style spaghetti with eggplant and bacon in a dashi broth, a change of direction from the Western-style sauces. The slightly nostalgic, coffee-shop-style Neapolitan spaghetti comes with bacon and small shrimp; the menu describes its flavour as sweet and spicy.

After a meal, there are cakes and scones to consider. Diners have mentioned enjoying cake with their pasta, while others come for seasonal cakes, making this a place where lunch can extend to something sweet. The cosy dining room has small tables and works for solo meals as well as groups. Alongside pasta and pizza, the menu includes soup and desserts. For an after-meal drink, there is also a wide selection of tea.