Taking over the now closed restaurant Bianca’s – the casual spin-off from the Casa Fofo team - Da Pino will serve dishes from the pair’s childhoods as well as some more creative flavours and techniques they have developed while working in London. Pepe was previously head chef at Casa Fofo while Giannuzzi managed both Bianca’s and Casa Fofo before that.
The opening menu will be Italian influenced with antipasti, primi, and secondi, but is described as being much more modern and creative in its approach than a classic trattoria. Produce will be seasonal, and locally sourced where possible, championing British organic farms and sustainable fisheries.
Highlights from the main menu will include antipasti such as raw scallops with peanut milk and green tomatoes; aubergines with shiso and berries; red pepper and black sesame tart; and piadina, comte and pumpkin. Primi and secondi will include tomato ravioli with basil; grilled rice with mussels and potatoes; chicken, kalibos cabbage and sabayon; and trout, with fennel and herbs.
For dessert will be a sourdough bread miso ice cream with apple and pumpkin seeds.
The accompanying wine list will focus on small-scale, independent producers who work sustainably and with respect for the land.
The restaurant will be equipped with a vintage sound system and will host regular guest DJs on Sundays throughout the year.
“Da Pino is from the heart,” says Pepe. “We’re trying to make an already beautiful spot into something really personal and creative. We can’t wait to share our love of hospitality, food and music with the neighbourhood.”
Da Pino will open on 7 October.