Vivo: All day Italian dining experience coming soon to Islington
Vivo, a vibrant new Italian bakery and restaurant, will bring an authentic taste of the Mediterranean to the heart of bustling Upper Street in Islington, North London this September. Inspired by the traditional gastronomia and pasticceria of Italy, Vivo will offer regional cuisine which is perfect for all-day casual dining. Vivo is the first venture from brothers Will and Ben Thompson who have drawn upon their travel experiences and passion for Italian food and culture to launch this exciting culinary project. Vivo will be a neighbourhood restaurant that serves as an informal venue for both locals and visitors to this trendy part of London.
Vivo’s main focal point will be a striking, 14 metre granite counter with a separate drinks bar, from which orders will be taken and the food and drink served. Dishes will include freshly baked ciabatta and focaccia, torte rustica (Italian savoury pies), authentic Roman pizza ‘al taglio’ (rectangular slices), fresh salads, speciality cheese and meat boards. Guests looking for heartier dishes can opt for hot signature favourites such as lasagne and cannelloni. A selection of Italian desserts, pastries and sweets will also be available such as gianduja chocolate tart with raspberry puree. With its varied menu, Vivo will be the perfect destination for breakfast, lunch or dinner.
In keeping with continental café culture, coffee is set to be a key part of Vivo’s appeal, and will be supplied by renowned Neapolitan roaster Kimbo. Diners can also choose from a selection of excellent wines from some of Italy’s best vineyards, as well as prosecco and a range of Italian beers, spirits and cocktails. Customers visiting during the early evening can enjoy aperitivo hour: a sociable Italian custom where complimentary snacks are served with drinks.
Vivo’s interiors will balance modern, monolithic features with rustic earthy tones. Design features include the use of split face timber panels, dark granite surfaces, Rossendale stone walls and a combination of oak and York stone flooring. The ground floor will cater for up to 50 covers with a mix of communal and individual tables while the open air roof terrace (seating 35) will provide the perfect setting for al fresco dining in the warmer months.
Co-owner Will Thompson says: “The Vivo concept has developed from a love and study of Italian cuisine. We have travelled extensively throughout Italy, discovering unique regional dishes served in traditional ‘gastronomia’, high-end bakeries and pasticceria in the cosmopolitan, style conscious cities of Milan, Turin and Rome”.
Bringing a tantalising taste of Italy to the midst of buzzing North London, local restaurant Vivo is set to be a colourful addition to the capital’s foodie map.
Website: vivotaste.com
