Member Article

Al Sorriso brings a slice of pizza heaven to Tettenhall with £35,000 investment

A family inspired bistro and Italian pizzeria has opened in Tettenhall in a major boost to the village’s culinary scene.

Al Sorriso, which already runs a hugely successful restaurant in nearby Albrighton, has invested £35,000 into transforming the vacant Little Italy building into a rustic, informal dining experience offering Italian breakfasts, tapas and a great range of authentic pizzas.

The venture is the brainchild of husband-and-wife team Luciana Palmieri and Mark Smith, with their 16-year-old daughter Irene combining her studies with a part-time role as one of the main chefs.

Six new jobs will be initially created, with the company looking to attract an additional head chef, front of house and waiting staff.

“We’re really excited to be opening in Tettenhall and bringing something new to people looking for a casual dining experience fuelled by my culinary experiences growing up in Giovinazzo,” explained Luciana,

“Diners can enjoy an Italian continental breakfast of great tasting meats, homemade cakes and breads, then as we move through the day our range of tapas, salads, pastas and, of course, our pizzas that have been going down a storm in Albrighton.”

She went on to add: “There is a big family influence in both our venues and our daughter Irene will be one of the main chefs, having her say on the monthly specials we serve.”

A special open night took place on Thursday to officially welcome diners to the Al Sorriso bistro, which is open for breakfast on Saturdays and Sundays (from 9am) and six days per week (Tuesday to Sunday) for lunch (from 11.30am to 2.30pm) and evening sittings (from 5pm to 10.30pm).

A 10-strong pizza offer will headline the culinary treats, with the classic margherita, prosciutto funghi, calabrese, gamberoni and the signature ‘Al Sorriso’ all available.

There will also be a wide range of vegetarian and vegan options available at the 24-cover bistro.

Mark Smith concluded: “Tettenhall has a fantastic retail offer and plenty of footfall and we’re hoping to attract local people, office workers and individuals who are out shopping in the village.

“We are offering the three core Italian characteristics of great food, great wine and great company in a really cosy atmosphere, whether you decide to join us for breakfast, lunch or an evening meal.

“The initial investment is just the start. We’ve already got exciting plans in place to bring our ‘secret garden’ back to life, explore more ‘alfresco’ dining and stage several themed evenings over the next twelve months.”

Al Sorriso will also be offering a takeaway option for most of its menu, with more details found on www.alsorriso.co.uk

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Russ Cockburn .