A number of refreshing twists to the Bardolino menu are set to get the taste buds of foodies drooling.
Anyone now looking to enjoy what Marco describes as "ultra-casual" dining should head to his two Bardolino Pizzeria Bellini and Espresso Bars on Wharfside Street at The Cube in Birmingham and Cadbury House in North Somerset.
Taking its name from the town of Marco's mother's birth, which is located in the Italian region of Veneto, the restaurants feature an all-day express menu of authentic Italian cuisine, coffees and Bellinis that sticks to Marco's philosophy of serving simple, uncomplicated food.
With a distinctly rustic feel and eclectic mix of chairs and tables the vibrant interiors of both venues certainly reflects both old and new but with a deference to Italy.
Speaking of the latest twist on the menu, Marco said: "What I like about Bardolino is that it tells you exactly what it is in the name. It's pizza, it's coffee, it's a bar.
"We lead such busy lives our favourite past time must be escapism. A lot of today's restaurant habits are about casual dining, so casual spaces are really important. I like casual and I like affordable and that is what you get with Bardolino.
"The most important aspect of any restaurant is the environment you're sat in. The lighting, the music, the staff all play their part. Food is almost fourth on the list.
"Bardolino is all about simple, authentic Italian food. It's recognisable dishes served in a comfortable and relaxed setting."
Starters on the updated menu include Tartufo Fritte and Crispy Fritto Misto which comes with a choice of butterfly prawns or calamari while a new charcuterie called Perinelli & Mr White's Salumi, has been added to the menu following a chance encounter when Marco came across the award-winning wares while he was shopping in a Gloucestershire antique shop!
Customers can also expect a variety of authentic sourdough pizzas which includes the Romana, Basilico and Florentina while a range of Al Forno dishes will keep pasta lovers happy.
For those looking to start off the day in true Italian style, there is also a range of delicious brunch dishes. Served on toast, they include Baked Tuscan sausages, the Bardolino breakfast, and avocado with pancetta and poached eggs.
Jason Everett, executive head chef at MPW Restaurants: "Bardolino is a place where customers can pop in numerous times a week and the menu is a reflection of just that.
"We want groups of friends to come in for lunch or dinner. It's not pretentious, it's just good food, served in a great environment and reflects Marco's passion for classic Italian food done well.
"By constantly adding new twists to the menu, it gives our returning diners something else to look forward to on their next visit. It also gives people who have never joined us before the perfect excuse to come and try us out and we look forward to welcoming them to either restaurant."
