Riva Blu Italian Bar and Restaurant has replaced Celebrity chef Gino D’Acampo’s Castle Street restaurant - but changes to the decor are minimal.
The famed chef's Gino My Restaurant first opened in the summer of 2017, but shut up shop last month before being relaunched as Riva Blu on Thursday, January 27.
Located at No.1 Castle Street, the 130-cover restaurant from Individual Restaurants is part of the company's new vision for 2022 and takes its name from the Italian word for shore ‘riva’, reminiscent of the beautiful Amalfi Coast with its wonderful restaurants, scattered vineyards and views of the dramatic coastline.
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‘Blu,’ the colour of tranquil seas, is also reflected in the branding as well as the restaurant's plush nautical-inspired interiors. Guests can expect to see the same decor which they're accustomed to but with a touch of Riva Blu throughout, including bold artwork and Riva Blu signature cocktails and dishes.
Over the coming weeks and months, guests will see further injections of newness at the restaurant.
Adopting the Italian belief that good food is a celebration of life, Riva Blu aims to satisfy all appetites with an extensive menu including sharing plates, bruschetta and antipasti, salads, pasta, risotto and ravioli, pizza, steaks and a wide selection of main courses.
More than 60 classic Italian dishes feature, all made from the finest locally sourced ingredients.
Visitors who fancy a tipple can choose from the restaurant's extensive cocktail selection, including signature drinks Cry Me a Riva, a blend of watermelon vodka and passion fruit liqueur with raspberries, peach, lemon and cranberry (£8.85), and Take Me Somewhere Tropical, which combines mango vodka and Aperol with passion fruit, pineapple and lime (£8.85). Zero alcohol options are available too.
Guests can also choose from a vast range of Prosecco, Italian wines, beers, spirits and liqueurs including the classic Italian digestif, Amari. All can be enjoyed in the restaurant, at the bar, or on the restaurant's impressive terrace.
Speaking on the launch of the restaurant, Francesco Zaccaria, general manager at Riva Blu, said: "We’re incredibly excited to introduce Riva Blu to Liverpool and can’t wait to welcome guests.
"Riva Blu is set to bring a real taste of ‘la dolce vita’ to the city with a menu bursting with classic Italian favourites and our own signature dishes, all prepared using the finest seasonal ingredients.
"Guests can expect the same warm welcome that Individual Restaurants is known for as our existing dedicated team deliver a truly authentic Italian dining experience.
"We’re also planning some very special celebrations over the coming months, starting with Valentine’s Day, so look out for more exciting news as the RIVAlution begins."
Riva Blu is the latest offering from Individual Restaurants and aims to provide a premium yet informal dining experience with a brunch, lunch and dinner service until late.
Those after a Gino D'Acampo fix can venture to hotel INNSiDE Liverpool, which is home to Gino's new 200 cover restaurant, Gino D’Acampo Old Hall Street, found on the hotel's ground floor.
Riva Blu is located at 1 Castle Street, L2 4SW.
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