Business

Italian restaurant chain Zizzi opens first Northern Ireland outlet

Zizzi is to open in Victoria Square, Belfast next month
Zizzi is to open in Victoria Square, Belfast next month Zizzi is to open in Victoria Square, Belfast next month

ITALIAN restaurant chain Zizzi is to open its first outlet in Northern Ireland, creating 35 jobs in the process.

The company - which already has 140 restaurants across Britain and Ireland - will set up in Belfast's Victoria Square.

And it is just the first of several planned for the north.

The company's marketing director Jo Fawcett said: "With the continued success across the UK and Ireland, we hope to look at opening more locations in Northern Ireland in the near future. We have no doubt Zizzi will appeal to everyone and we can’t wait to welcome hungry customers through our doors.”

The store will open on October 8 and will feature special dessert Belfast’s Blooming Cheesecake, said to be inspired by Botanic Gardens.

Ms Fawcett said Victoria Square was considered a "prime location" for Zizzi's first Northern Ireland outlet.

"Choosing Belfast was an easy decision for us; the vibrancy and individuality of the city makes it a perfect setting for a restaurant like Zizzi and we can’t wait to leave our mark on the already animated food scene," she said.

"Zizzi is the perfect accompaniment to all occasions, be it shopping, cinema or nightlife.”

Zizzi first opened its doors in London 1999 and has made a big impact to the casual dining industry.

Every new Zizzi restaurant incorporates a feature wall design by a local up and coming artist.

Zizzi at Victoria Square will feature a bespoke wall mural designed by local artist Hannah Coates.

The eye-catching design features an abundance of flowers, leaves and berries, with bright colours and sharp black lines that offer a stark contrast to the rustic ambience of the restaurant.