A Taste Of Italy
Gio’s Café Bar is now open on New Market Street in Clitheroe much to the delight of locals, writes Gail Bailey. Photography: Kirsten Platt
Local businessman Joseph Lanzante has always had a dream of opening a true Italian deli coffee shop and now that has become a reality with the opening of Gio’s earlier this month: “I have had a love of food ever since I was a child where my family and I lived on a farm, and I saw from a young age how everything that we ate we had produced. This has always given me an appreciation of the work that goes into creating great tasting dishes.”
Joseph’s friend and business partner, Chris Tattersall is the co-founder of Gio’s and the pair already own Perfect Italian Dishes – a company that imports fresh Italian pasta sauces and pizza bases, direct from Italy, and deliver these nationwide (perfectitaliandishes.co.uk).
Once the perfect location for Gio’s had been found it was important to design the space to give it an authentic Italian feel: “I could see in my mind how we wanted Gio’s to look and by collaborating with local interior designer Georgie Fearnhead we have created exactly what we wanted!” says Joseph.
With over 15 years’ experience in residential, commercial and workplace design Georgie explains where her inspiration for Gio’s came from: “For me it is important that we always begin with how a space will be used,” she says. “The functionality is a key element in the design, before we even begin to consider the décor.
“Joseph and I met on a number of occasions as part of the process and we thought about the service area, the counter and the seating. We wanted a blend of a relaxed space for customers with a hint of a city centre vibe – a mix of traditional and contemporary,” Georgie adds. “The colours were of huge importance to create a Mediterranean feel – lots of soft pastels to reflect the fresh atmosphere of an Italian holiday, mixed with lush green to tap into the Ribble Valley countryside!”
The final look certainly does conjure up that sense of a relaxed Italian lifestyle – the space is infused with unique touches that reflect the Italian café culture: “The space is bright and airy so customers can enjoy the natural light with a clean, open layout that enhances the whole dining experience. Gio’s is more than just a café and deli – it’s a place where you feel completely chilled catching up with friends or where you feel happy dining solo,” Joseph adds.
The mouth-watering menus are full of fresh, seasonal produce, sourced from the best suppliers. There will be a range of pizzas and a variety of pasta dishes including focaccia sandwiches with a choice of delicious fillings, and tasty Italian wraps. Not forgetting a wonderful choice of pastries and cakes – perfect with one of the speciality coffees from the Blue Cherry Coffee Company.
“There is no need to book ahead,” Joseph says. “Whether you’re in the mood for a quick bite or a leisurely lunch we’ve got lots for you to choose from. We believe good food is meant to be shared and we can’t wait to share our fresh ingredients, authentic recipes, friendly atmosphere and love of Italian food with everyone.”
Customers can enjoy the outside space at Gio’s too: “Our patio area is dog friendly so customers can relax with their four-legged friend and savour our delicious deli treats,” says Joseph. “It is an elegant and chilled area – perfect to relax with a coffee and a bite to eat on a warm, sunny day.
“It’s been wonderful to work on this project,” adds Georgie. “And I really do wish all the team at Gio’s lots of luck and success with their new venture, it certainly is a great addition to Clitheroe!”
Experience a true taste of Italy.
Gio’s Clitheroe
3 New Market Street, Clitheroe BB7 2JW
07984 797726
OPENING TIMES
Monday to Saturday: 8.30am – 4.00pm
The last Friday and Saturday of every month Gio’s will be open to diners in the evening.
Find Georgie at: newheyinteriors.com
