Italian restaurant chain says Ciao to York as latest venue launches

Italian restaurant chain Gusto has opened the doors to its latest venue in York following a £1m investment.

Gusto, part of the Living Ventures Group, has 16 restaurants across the UK and the new York restaurant and bar in Little Stonegate, is part of the company’s ongoing plans for growth.

The latest restaurant, which opened on Thursday, will see 60 jobs created for the local area and almost £1m invested in a refurbishment which has transformed the existing Mulberry Hall shop.

“We are restoring and retaining many of the building’s original features” said Sue Crimes, managing director at Gusto.

“But we’ll be adding to it with our sparkly finishing touches, plush furniture, twinkly lights and delicate olive trees, which help create the relaxed, luxurious atmosphere we’re known for.”

Gusto launched in 2005 and private investment in 2014 and 2017 has led to rapid expansion of the restaurant brand.

Crimes added: “This is our second site to open this year – Nottingham, which opened in February, is flourishing and we hope for the same success in York.

“The new restaurant in Little Stonegate can accommodate up to 120 diners as well as those just looking for a drink in our separate bar area. We believe the success of our restaurants is down to excellent staff training, freshly prepared food and great atmosphere. We also have a lot of loyalty from our customer base, thanks to our partnerships with local businesses and organisations and our exclusive Dining Club membership scheme.”