Francesco Mazzei to launch authentic Italian trattoria in north London
Italian chef Francesco Mazzei has revealed the name of his new trattoria due to open in March in Islington, north London.
Radici will replace D&D London's Almeida, on Almeida Street, which closed on 1 January.
The name, which translates as ‘roots' will reflect Mazzei's heritage. The menu will draw on inspiration from Campania, Basilicata, Puglia, Sicily and Sardinia.
Dishes on offer will include umido di baccala (salt cod with potatoes, tomato sauce, onions, capers and black olives); ferrazzuoli (eggless pasta with southern Italian lamb, pork and beef ragu); and involtino di fegato (calf liver stuffed with pancetta, garlic and sage, served with smoked potato mash).
A variety of charcuterie and cheeses will also be available. Fresh pizzas and bread will be baked in a wood fired oven situated in the centre of the restaurant.
Heading up the kitchen will be Mazzei's right-hand man Antonio Mazzone.
Mazzei commented: "With Radici, I am so excited to bring the food of my childhood to my London home. I have lived in Islington for over 20 years, and I hope that this relaxed neighbourhood restaurant will soon become a part of the local community and a go-to venue for authentic southern Italian food in London."
The interiors will be designed by David d'Almada of Sagrada studios. In order to recreate the feeling of a traditional trattoria, the restaurant will be filled with natural colours and Italian tuff stone. Hints of blue in the furniture and crockery will run throughout.
Mazzei will continue as chef-patron of Sartoria on Savile Row for D&D London.
D&D London owns and operates 34 restaurants and a hotel in London, Leeds, Paris, New York and Tokyo.
Almeida to close and relaunch under Francesco Mazzei >>