A NEW Italian restaurant is opening in Middlewich.

Il Padrino, set inside the iconic Alhambra building on Wheelock Street, has a bar and can accommodate more than 100 diners.

Il Padrino, which means ‘The Godfather’ in Italian will be the second venue for local restauranteur Alberto Halluni.

Sister venue, Don Alberto has become a firm favourite in neighbouring Holmes Chapel since it opened in 2015.

A contemporary Italian inspired fit out began in early August on the interior of the building and the restaurant is looking forward to welcoming its first customers tomorrow, Thursday.

Alberto said: "We are extremely excited to be opening our second venue in Middlewich. We had been viewing properties across Cheshire for well over a year and when we saw the Alhambra we recognised immediately what a great opportunity it presents.

"It is centrally located, easy to access and has a long history at the heart of Middlewich.

"We are a close knit team passionate about the food we create and we can’t wait to get to know both our business neighbours and local residents.

"We sincerely hope Il Padrino will make a welcome and significant contribution to the local community here.”

The spirit of Don Alberto will be reflected in the menu.

“Il Padrino will continue the success we have had in Holmes Chapel by offering a menu of freshly prepared, authentic Italian dishes," said Alberto.

"This significantly larger restaurant will also enable us deliver a greater choice of speciality dishes and introduce some less well known Italian delicacies to our guests.

"Popular favourites such as pizzas and pastas will remain on the menu but we will also encourage visitors to try our exciting new dishes.”

True to its Italian heritage Il Padrino will be a family friendly restaurant.

Opening times will allow younger guests to dine in the early evening and the restaurant will also be open for Sunday lunches. Live entertainment will also be provided on selected dates.

READ > Mum braves the shave after shedding six stone and raises £3,000 for The Joshua Tree

“Great company and great conversation is as important to Italian dining as the food,” added Alberto. “That’s why we are thrilled at Il Padrino to also offer a bar and lounge area where customers can just join us for drinks and enjoy the ambience of the venue. We can’t wait to welcome our first customers this week.”

For further information search Il Padrino on Facebook or call 01606 837 888 for table reservations.