Polpo, London

Former Caprice Holdings operations director Russell Norman has launched this Soho restaurant, inspired by the Venetian bacaros. A joint-venture with business partner Richard Beatty, it serves a menu of small dishes and offers an extensive Italian wine list.

Opened 30 September

Owners Russell Norman and Richard Beatty

Head chef Tom Oldroyd

Manager Russell Norman

Capacity 55, plus 25 private dining

Menu Italian - dishes include salt cod on grilled polenta; grilled sliced flank steak and flat mushrooms; calf's liver with onion and sage; pork belly with radicchio and hazelnuts; and honey and walnut semifreddo.

Average spend £20 including drinks and service

Address 41 Beak Street, London W1F 9SB

Telephone 020 7734 4479

Websitewww.polpo.co.uk