Jamie's Italian open for summer

THE RUMOURS started going on Liverpool Confidnetial last September (click here), now it's been confirmed that Jamie Oliver will open in Liverpool One this summer with his first Jamie's Italian restaurant in the North West in Liverpool One.

The 6,251 sq ft restaurant, trading on the ground floor of the old Zavvi is situated opposite John Lewis in Paradise Place. It will open in June this year and staff are already being trained.

Simon Blagden, managing director of Jamie's Italian, said: "Liverpool One is the perfect location for a Jamie's Italian. Nowhere is more appropriate for our concept of creating 'neighbourhood' restaurants, inspired by the 'Italian table' where people relax, share, and enjoy each other's company, than Liverpool, a city famed for its character and warm welcome.

Jamie Oliver added: "When people eat at a 'Jamie's Italian', I want them to really get into the food, maybe try something they wouldn't normally try, but always be safe in the knowledge that they're eating good stuff, prepared with love."

Miles Dunnett, head of asset management at Grosvenor Liverpool Fund, said: "Jamie's Italian is a fantastic addition to Liverpool One's dining offer and is yet another reason why Liverpool One has become the region's dominant destination for a great day out. Liverpool One successfully combines shopping with leisure, entertainment and, in the wider city context, cultural and arts facilities. Jamie's Italian is a natural fit and will be a great success."