Carluccio’s opens Aperitivo Bar

Carluccio’s has launched an evening-only “Aperitivo Bar” format for its busiest UK city centre locations.

Initially introduced at the Italian restaurant chain’s branches in Reading and West Smithfield in London, the initiative is targeting office workers with a “typically Italian bar experience.”

From 5pm every day the deli and barista bar is replaced with softer lighting, additional seating and tables, with the drinks list shifting to Italian wines, cocktails and a selection of bottled and draught beers.

In keeping with the trend for smaller sized eating options, the bar will serve a “grazing” alternative to its main menu. The Venetian-inspired plates will be priced below £5 and include dishes such as meatballs, fried pasta crisps and tuna-stuffed peppers.

Explaining the development, Carluccio’s CEO Simon Kossoff, remarked: “We have always traded well at traditional mealtimes such as breakfast, lunch and supper as well as during the day.

“The new aperitivo bar offer has been designed specifically to attract an after-work early evening clientele, increasing traffic between the quieter hours of 5pm and 7pm whilst

offering our guests the same great value and genuine Italian experience they have come to expect.”