Business Details
20 Years
experience
Authentic Italian Dining with Small Plates in the UK
Established in 2006 by Neil and Sara Gatt, Pesto Restaurants has redefined Italian dining through its innovative piattini concept. Our founders, with decades of combined experience in hospitality, sought to create an informal yet refined space where guests could enjoy authentic Italian cuisine without compromising on quality or affordability. We specialise in small-plate dining, offering over 50 dishes that showcase traditional Italian flavours with modern presentation. Our commitment to family-friendly hospitality ensures every guest, from children to adults, finds something to savour.With locations across the UK, including historic pubs and urban hubs like the Trafford Centre, we blend rustic charm with contemporary service. Our menus cater to diverse dietary needs, featuring gluten-free and lactose-free options, while our dedicated team ensures a relaxed atmosphere for every occasion. From romantic dinners to celebratory gatherings, Pesto Restaurants remains true to its founding ethos: delivering exceptional food and service in an accessible setting.
Services
Italian Dining
Piattini Menu
Takeaway Service
Kids Menu
Afternoon Tea
Private Dining
Dietary Options
Cocktail Bar
Event Catering
Gift Cards
Details
- Year established: 2006
Highlights and features
- We offer over 20 years of combined hospitality experience from our founders
- Our piattini concept provides 50+ authentic Italian dishes for sharing
- Family-friendly dining with dedicated kids' menus and facilities
- Menus include gluten-free and lactose-free options with advance notice
- We operate in 12 unique UK locations including historic venues
Services
Italian Dining
Our Italian restaurants serve authentic cuisine in relaxed settings across 12 UK locations. Guests enjoy traditional dishes reimagined for modern palates, with emphasis on quality ingredients and family-style sharing. The menu features classic Italian favourites alongside seasonal specials.
Piattini Menu
The signature piattini menu offers over 50 small dishes designed for sharing. This Italian concept allows guests to sample multiple courses, featuring antipasti, primi, secondi and contorni. Dishes change seasonally to reflect fresh, local produce.
Takeaway Service
Order Italian cuisine for takeaway from participating locations. The menu includes signature dishes available for collection during restaurant opening hours. Advance ordering available via our website.
Kids Menu
Child-friendly Italian dishes served in family-friendly environments. Menus include mini portions of classics like pasta, garlic bread and chicken bites. High chairs and activity sheets available at all locations.
Afternoon Tea
Italian afternoon tea features artisan sandwiches, pastries and prosecco. Served in elegant settings across multiple locations. Reservations recommended for weekend bookings.
People
Neil Gatt
Founder
Co-founder of Pesto Restaurants with over 20 years' experience in hospitality. Started career in teenage years, developing expertise in casual dining concepts. Leads strategic direction of the business.
Sara Gatt
Founder
Co-founder bringing extensive hospitality industry knowledge to Pesto Restaurants. Focuses on maintaining culinary standards and customer experience across all locations. Developed the original piattini concept menu.
Questions
What is the piattini concept?
Piattini means 'small plates' in Italian. Our menu offers over 50 dishes designed for sharing, allowing guests to sample multiple Italian courses in one meal.
Do you cater for dietary requirements?
Yes, we offer gluten-free and lactose-free options. Please inform staff of allergies when ordering. Detailed allergen information available upon request.
Can I book a table at Pesto?
Reservations are available at most locations through our website or direct phone contact. The Trafford Centre branch does not accept bookings.
Are children welcome at Pesto Restaurants?
Yes, all locations offer kids' menus, high chairs and activity sheets. Staff are trained to accommodate families with young children.
Do you offer takeaway options?
Selected locations provide takeaway service with our full menu available for collection. Check individual restaurant pages for availability and opening hours.
What locations do you operate in?
We have 12 restaurants across the UK, including Cheshire, Derbyshire, Leicestershire, West Midlands and Greater Manchester. Locations include both city centres and rural areas.
