SATURDAY saw the official opening of Marco Pierre White’s new restaurant in Old Town.

The Bardolino Pizzeria Bellini & Espresso Bar, whose food is based on the elaborate creations of the famous TV chef, welcomed diners and drinkers for the start of what is expected to be a hugely successful venture.

It is located in Wood Street at the site of the former Old Bank.

The new eatery takes its name from the town of Marco’s mother’s birth, Bardolino – a stunning lakeside town on Lake Garda in northern Italy. It features an all-day express menu of authentic Italian food, coffees and Bellinis.

Proprietor Manni Madhani, who entered into talks with Marco last year about the possibility of bringing such a restaurant to Swindon, said: “Over the last few days we have been putting the finishing touches to the building, and it’s looking brilliant.

“I am really proud to have it in the Old Bank and I think it’s going to be very popular as there has already been a high demand for tables.

“For the past couple of weeks we have been getting all the fresh ingredients together and now we are finally ready to go.”

The new 80-cover restaurant already has outlets in Bristol and Birmingham and has proved very popular with foodies.

It offers a true Mediterranean decorative style, with warm colours and washed woods to create an ‘ultra-casual’ and relaxed feel. Pictures of Marco Pierre White adorn the wall, as if to remind guests of the inspiration behind the food.

Restaurant goers can expect a variety of authentic stone-baked pizzas, homemade pastas and traditional desserts.

A passionate Manni added: “Marco’s ethic is offering quality food at an affordable price; all the ingredients are of the highest quality.”

Bardolino will occupy the ground floor of the three-story building. Manni will operate Bardolino under licence from the celebrity chef’s Black & White Hospitality business and will also manage The Bank bars which are located on the first and second floors.

Marco Pierre White said: “Bardolino represents affordable, friendly and casual dining with authentic recognisable Italian dishes.”

Peering in through the window on Saturday afternoon, one potential customer, who wished to remain nameless, said: “I think it looks great, they seem to have done a really good job.”