Popular Harrogate restaurant expands to deliver “authentic” cuisine to more locals

A popular Italian restaurant on Cold Bath road has expanded, doubling its capacity. Pranzo Italian has taken on a lease on the former hairdressers next door to create a space that will seat an additional 25 guests.

Pranzo has become a local staple for “authentic” southern Italian cuisine and “carefully selected” imported wine. The expansion has also allowed for a sealed-off private dining area at the back of the restaurant with “stunning” decor, intended for small gatherings.

Owner, founder and chef Marco Greco is looking forward to the next stage in Pranzo’s journey, commenting: “Our Harrogate restaurant was a small intimate venue that was always fully booked.

“This expansion means more people can enjoy the traditional Calabrese food I grew up with, a combination of quality produce we source from Southern Italy, imported wines and homemade pasta. It’s a great addition for Pranzo and even greater for our loyal customers who can enjoy the experience more often.”

The restaurant opened its doors to Harrogate locals for the first time just before a national lockdown in 2020. Stephen Peace, operations manager, confirms that given the economic climate the restaurant evolved in, the Pranzo business model has been “tested”.

Stephen added: “Hospitality has and will always be a tough industry to be in. We focus heavily on quality produce and providing exceptional customer experience plus a lot of team training. Combined this has allowed us to remain in the top two restaurants in Harrogate, testament to the commitment we have for quality and consistency’’.

The Harrogate restaurant recently celebrated two years in business. Their other restaurant in Ilkley, opened in 2018 and also serves fresh, homemade pasta to locals.

By Matthew Neville – Correspondent, Bdaily