Operated under licence by the chef’s business Black & White Hospitality, the company will open its first two sites at the Cube development in the city in May, and at the Cadbury House Hotel in Bristol in June. There are plans to roll our further locations across the next two years.
The concept is named after the town of White’s mother’s birth, Bardolino, and will focus on stonebaked pizza, homemade pasta, coffees, and Bellini cocktails.
Typical pizza options will include the Zingara with ham, mushrooms and truffle oil; or the Bresaola e Mozzarella with cured beef, tomatoes and mozzarella.
The décor will be influenced by traditional Italian villages, with a “vibrant” and “quirky” touch.
Nick Taplin, chief executive and owner at Black & White Hospitality, said: “Bardolino is sure to be a hit with both day-time and evening diners. The high street has changed a lot in the past few years and the demand for casual dining has become increasingly popular. This concept is designed to offer a fresh alternative, where authentic, uncomplicated food served promptly is absolutely essential.”
White said: “Bardolino represents affordable, friendly and casual dining with recognisable family favourites and classic Italian dishes. I truly believe that Italian food is affordable and delicious.”
Black & White Hospitality also owns the franchise rights to four other Marco Pierre White restaurant brands, including Wheeler’s of St. James’s, Steakhouse Bar & Grill, Mr. White’s English Chophouse, and Marco’s New York Italian. With 27 sites, plus the two new Bardolino restaurants, it plans to have 40 locations by the end of the year.