Zizzi notices trend for small plates; rolls out cichetti menu

Noting the popularity of Venetian-style tapas as a dining trend for the summer, Zizzi has developed a traditional menu aimed at diners looking for a light or early evening meal.

While many restaurants across the capital, such as Polpo, Tinello and Bocca di Lupo, have become popular for their cichetti offering, the launch of Zizzi’s dedicated menu makes it the first UK restaurant chain to widely offer the cuisine.

Helen Jones, managing director at Zizzi, said the group want cichetti to be a ‘really fun and sociable dining experience for groups of friends and families, as well as a speedy but satisfying option for busy workers’.

“Whether diners fancy a quick bite before heading out on the town with friends, or a varied tasting experience for all the family to enjoy - cichetti has something to suit all tastes. Venetian Tapas is something that Zizzi has never offered before and our executive chef Angelo (Garofalo) has specifically created this new range for the menu.”

Cichetti dishes on the menu include Polenta Croccante, Arancini with a tomato chilli sauce,Salsicca Al Pepe Nero (sausage with lentils and cannellini beans) and Polpette al Pomodoro (beef and pork meatballs in a spicy tomato sauce).

The new menu will be rolled out across the 120-strong Zizzi estate from 7 September. Trials were run at Zizzi restaurants in Charlotte Street, Central St. Giles and Banstead.