The Bernardi brothers, Marcello and Gabriel, are well versed in creating popular hospitality spaces which work thanks to their Italian charm and knack for straddling the sweet spot between familiar crowd-pleasing classics and contemporary techniques.
Now the pair have directed their attention to The Italian Greyhound, where the eponymous Bernardi’s once stood. This is an evolution of the brothers’ growth on the culinary scene in London. Working with business party Barry Hirst and head chef Yohei Furuhashi they have come up with a new and improved version of their dining destination.
This smart, friendly spot provides all-day dining in several guises. Both lunch and dinner offerings are on the table for guests to enjoy, while for those who fancy something lighter there are small plates and snacks, ideal for enjoying on the wraparound terrace or at the bar.
Chef Yohei Furuhashi’s creations have a strong produce-focus, for Italian dishes made with the-best-of-British ingredients. Furuhashi – whose experience spans time at River Cafe as well as Petersham Nurseries – has come up with a whole host of crowd pleasers to keep everyone happy. Pizza and pasta are firmly still in place, but sit alongside more usual treats. Transport yourself to sunnier shores by way of Sicilian chickpea fritters with sage or plump for the familiarity of a plate of handmade pasta, perhaps tossed through with a slow-cooked pork ragu.
The drinks list has been carefully curated to keep things short and sharp. Here you’ll find both Italian and British beers, ales and ciders as well as a hand-picked selection of European wines and a mix of cocktails which are perfect for aperitivi.
The restauranteur siblings have not only had a hand in the food and drink but have also closely worked on the interiors too. Expect a relaxed but refined space which puts an emphasis on natural materials to create a chic and contemporary place to relax in.