Husband-and-wife team expand North London pizzeria with six-figure funding

A family-run pizza restaurant in North London has created jobs and almost doubled in size after undergoing a six-figure refurbishment.

Italian husband-and-wife team Anita and Luciano Covelluzzi, owners of Pizzeria Giovanni in Winchmore Hill, used funding from NatWest to acquire and expand into the neighbouring shop on Green Lane, increasing covers from 65 to 100.

The funding supported structural work and a refurb of the additional space, including new furniture, a bar and pizza oven.

Anita and Luciano have also added to their team, hiring four front of house staff and two kitchen staff.

Pizzeria Giovanni opened in 1990 and was bought by its current owners in 2013.

Anita said: “Since we took over the restaurant five years ago, we have worked hard to build a reputation in the local area as a friendly Italian restaurant, with attentive staff serving quality food.

“With the funding NatWest has provided, we have been able to expand the restaurant, which will allow us to welcome more customers looking for an authentic Italian dining experience.”

NatWest relationship manager Matt Smith commented: “I have worked with Anita and Luciano for almost four years and seen the restaurant thrive in Winchmore Hill.

“The funding we have provided has helped a great family-run business continue to grow and we wish them every success in the future.”