A new Italian restaurant brand has opened its doors in Liverpool city centre offering 60 ‘classic’ Italian dishes. Tony McDonough reports

Liverpool has seen another new restaurant opening as the city’s hospitality sector continues to recover from the COVID-19 pandemic.

Owner of Riva Blu, Individual Restaurants, says the venue promises to “bring style, glamour and sass to modern Italian dining”. The 130-cover restaurant is located at No 1 Castle Street and replaces the former Gina D’Campo’s eatery.

It takes its name from the Italian word for shore ‘riva’, which depicts the beautiful Amalfi Coast with its restaurants, scattered vineyards and enchanting views of the dramatic coastline. ‘Blu,’ the colour of tranquil seas, is also reflected in the branding as well as the restaurant’s nautical-inspired interiors.

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More than 60 classic Italian dishes feature, all made from the finest locally sourced ingredients and delivered with flair.  Signature plates include the Linguine with Lobster (£29.50), Burrata Pizza (£14.75) and a Tagliere Misto sharing platter featuring Parma ham.

Desserts include Bombolini, Italian doughnuts filled with Amalfi lemon, Nutella and vanilla cream (£7.75); Tiramisu (£7.75), and Baileys Panna Cotta (£7.75) among the highlights.

It will also offer a range of cocktails including Cry Me a Riva, a blend of watermelon vodka and passion fruit liqueur with raspberries, peach, lemon and cranberry (£8.85). Guests can also choose from a selection of Prosecco, Italian wines, beers, spirits and liqueurs.

Francesco Zaccaria, general manager at Riva Blu, said: “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.”