The Best Italian Cheese & Wine Pairings: A Guide to Perfect Matches
We believe life’s finest pleasures are best enjoyed in good company – and few things rival the timeless pairing of wine and cheese. Whether you’re planning a relaxed aperitivo at home or elevating your next dinner party, understanding how to match the right Italian cheese with the perfect wine can transform your experience.
Let us guide you through the art of pairing, with expert tips and classic combinations, straight from the heart of Italy.
6 Tips for Pairing Italian Cheese & Wine
Whether you’re planning a casual aperitivo or a more formal tasting, here are 6 key tips to help you create perfect pairings between Italian cheeses and wines.
1. Match Intensity
Bold, aged cheeses like Parmigiano Reggiano or Pecorino Romano pair best with equally robust wines like Barolo or Brunello di Montalcino, while fresh, mild cheeses like mozzarella or ricotta suit lighter wines like Pinot Grigio or Frascati.
2. Balance Salt & Sweetness
Salty cheeses, such as Gorgonzola or Grana Padano, can be beautifully balanced by sweeter wines like Vin Santo or a Moscato d’Asti.
3. Consider Texture
Creamy cheeses (e.g. Taleggio or Robiola) benefit from wines with good acidity or sparkle, such as Prosecco or Verdicchio, to cut through the richness.
4. Regional Pairing
When in doubt, go local. Wines and cheeses from the same Italian region often naturally complement each other – think Tuscan Pecorino with Chianti or Asiago with a glass of Soave from Veneto.
5. Be Aroma Aware
Strong, pungent cheeses like Gorgonzola Piccante need wines that can hold their own – opt for structured reds or sweet dessert wines to balance the intensity.
6. Freshness Meets Fruitness
Fresh cheeses like Burrata or Stracchino are ideal with crisp, fruity whites or young rosés, which enhance the cheese’s delicate flavour without overwhelming it.
5 Must-Try Italian Cheese & Wine Pairings
So which Italian cheeses go best with what which Italian wines? Here’s our guide to the best Italian cheese and wine pairings that balance taste, texture, and tradition.
1. Burrata & Vermentino
Why it works: Burrata is soft, creamy, and luxurious. It needs a wine that won’t overwhelm its delicacy but will refresh the palate.
Pair it with: Vermentino from Sardinia or Liguria. This crisp white wine offers citrus, floral, and herbal notes that brighten the rich cheese without overpowering it.
2. Pecorino Romano & Chianti Classico
Why it works: Aged Pecorino Romano is salty, sharp, and crumbly – perfect for pairing with a wine that can stand up to its intensity.
Pair it with: Chianti Classico, a bold Tuscan red made from Sangiovese grapes. Its acidity and rustic character cut through the salt and fat of the cheese.
4. Parmigiano Reggiano & Lambrusco
Why it works: Parmigiano is nutty, umami-rich, and savoury. You might think it needs a deep red, but something fizzy actually works beautifully.
Pair it with: Lambrusco, a slightly sparkling red from Emilia-Romagna. It refreshes your palate between bites and enhances the cheese’s complex flavours.
5. Gorgonzola Dolce & Vin Santo
Why it works: Blue cheese can be tricky – it’s pungent, salty, and creamy. The key is contrast.
Pair it with: Vin Santo or Passito di Pantelleria, both sweet Italian dessert wines. Their honeyed richness balances the sharp funk of Gorgonzola Dolce and turns it into an indulgent treat.
6. Taleggio & Dolcetto d’Alba
Why it works: Taleggio is a semi-soft, washed-rind cheese with a funky aroma and a mild tang
Pair it with: Dolcetto d’Alba, a fruit-forward red from Piedmont with low tannins and good acidity. It smooths out Taleggio’s edge and highlights its creamy texture.
What to serve with cheese and wine?
Want to go the extra mile? If you really want to impress, why not build a fully-fledged Italian charcuterie board – or if you’re simply looking for a few extra elements to serve alongside, here’s a short list of great accompaniments to serve with wine and Italian cheese.
- Cured meats: Prosciutto, salami, and bresaola add savoury depth.
- Bread & crackers: Offer slices of rustic Italian bread, grissini (breadsticks), or crostini.
- Fresh fruit: Grapes, figs, pears, or apple slices bring brightness and sweetness.
- Nuts: Toasted walnuts, almonds, or hazelnuts add crunch and earthy flavour.
- Olives: A small bowl of Italian olives adds a salty, briny contrast.
- Honey or fig jam: Perfect with sharp or blue cheeses for a sweet-savoury balance.
Remember, we offer an extensive wine menu across all of our San Carlo restaurants & venues, making it easy to find your perfect match. Book a table at your nearest San Carlo today!
The Best Italian Side Dishes For Pasta Pairing
A beautifully prepared side dish doesn’t just accompany your pasta – it elevates it. In this blog post, we explore the finest Italian contorni and accompaniments that bring balance, flavour, and a touch of elegance to your table, along with the best types of pasta dishes to pair with each.
8 Traditional Italian Side Dishes to Pair With Pasta
From classic insalate to seasonal vegetables and artisan breads, discover the perfect pairings to complement your next pasta course the San Carlo way.
1. Mushrooms
Mushrooms bring a rich, earthy depth to any meal, and at San Carlo, our funghi piemontese – a medley of mixed mushrooms sautéed in garlic and parsley butter, served in a crisp filo pastry basket – offers a luxurious touch to your pasta course.
Best pasta dishes to pair with mushrooms:
- Ravioli Tartufo – enhancing the truffle’s umami with complementary mushroom notes
- Tagliatelle Bolognese – balancing the robust flavour of the beef ragù
- Risotto San Carlo – for a double hit of woodland richness
2. Aubergine
Aubergine is a beloved ingredient in Italian cuisine, and our melanzane alla parmigiana – a classic Sicilian dish of layered Sicilian aubergine with Grana Padano and rich tomato sauce – is both comforting and full of flavour.
Best pasta dishes to pair with aubergine:
- Rigatoni Norma – for a harmonious pairing of aubergine-rich flavours
- Lasagne Emiliane – adding a soft, creamy contrast to the meat and pasta layers
- Penne Arrabbiata – tempering the heat with smooth, cheesy richness
3. Tenderstem Broccoli
Vibrant and full of flavour, tenderstem broccoli with garlic and chilli adds a bold, slightly spicy kick that brings freshness and balance to richer pasta dishes.
Best pasta dishes to pair with broccoli:
- Spaghetti Carbonara – cutting through the creaminess with a bright, peppery edge
- Pappardelle all’Anatra – contrasting the slow-cooked meat with freshness and heat
- Spaghetti Frutti di Mare – enhancing the seafood with a zesty, garlicky bite
4. Garlic Bread
At San Carlo, our garlic flatbread is a beloved favourite, offering a variety of flavours to perfectly complement your pasta. From the classic sea salt and garlic, to cheesy or tomato, each type of garlic bread adds a delightful touch to any meal.
Best pasta dishes to pair with garlic bread:
- Tagliatelle Bolognese or Mafaldine con Ragú di Manzo – a classic and beautiful paring with the richness of the beef
- Spaghetti Gamberoni Piccanti – the garlic enhances the flavour of lighter, fresh pasta dishes
- Spaghetti Carbonara – the perfect match for indulgent, creamy dishes
5. Mixed Salad
Salads are a classic and refreshing side to serve with pasta. They add a crisp, light contrast to the rich, hearty flavours of pasta dishes. Whether it’s a simple green salad or a more robust mix with vegetables, cheese, and vinaigrette, salads help balance the meal and cleanse the palate.
Best pasta dishes to pair with salad:
- Spaghetti Puttanesca – sharpens the bold, briny flavours of the olives and capers
- Tortellini Panna e Prosciutto – balances the rich, stuffed pasta
- Zitoni Toscanini – cleanses the palate and adds texture
6. Burrata
Burrata makes an exceptional side dish for pasta, offering a rich, creamy contrast that enhances the overall dining experience. At San Carlo, our burrata side dish is crafted with authentic burrata sourced from Corato in Puglia – an area renowned for producing some of Italy’s finest cheeses. Its delicate outer mozzarella shell and luscious creamy center perfectly balance bold pasta flavours.
Best pasta dishes to pair with burrata:
- Penne Arrabbiata – the heat of chili is soothed by the cool, rich texture of the cheese
- Zitoni Toscanini – the creaminess of the burrata creates a cool contrast to the spiced sausage
- Ravioli Tartufo – enhances the richness of the aromatic truffle
7. Zucchini
Light, crispy, and irresistibly moreish, our zucchine fritte at San Carlo – golden-fried courgette sticks – add a delightful crunch and subtle sweetness to your pasta experience.
Best pasta dishes to pair with zucchini:
- Spaghetti Frutti di Mare – enhancing the freshness of clams with a crisp contrast
- Spaghetti Puttanesca – balancing the acidity of tomato with a savoury bite
- Tagliatelle Montecarlo – offering texture alongside the citrusy, seafood-infused pasta
8. Antipasto Platter
An antipasto platter, also known as an Italian charcuterie board, is a hearty and flavourful option that showcases a variety of cured meats, cheeses and marinated vegetables. At San Carlo, our San Carlo Antipasto is a generous plate that captures the diverse regional flavours of Italy, perfect for sharing and adding depth to any meal.
Best pasta dishes to pair with antipasto:
- Rigatoni alla Norma – the robust antipasto flavours complement the rich aubergine and tomato sauce
- Spaghetti alla Puttanesca – the antipasto’s briny olives and pickled vegetables echo the bold, salty notes of the sauce
- Spaghetti Carbonara – the variety of textures provides a smooth counterpoint to the rich, creamy sauce
Whether it’s a crisp side salad, garlicky sautéed greens, or a warm garlic bread, these classic sides add balance and flavour to your plate.
Why not book a table at your nearest San Carlo restaurant and try out some of these tasty pairings yourself!
Introducing Our New Summer Menus
Available at selected San Carlo & Cicchetti sites from the end of April, our brand new summer menus will offer a delicious mix of antipasti (starter) and secondi (main) dishes) to savour and indulge all summer long.
To start, the San Carlo summer menu will feature a number of fresh, new, seasonal antipasti offerings; including a squid, prawn, scallops & scampi salad, a chicken caesar salad, as well as a prawn & avocado salad, to name a few.
Main dish highlights include the Tagliolini Crab (tagliolini pasta with crab, tomato, saffron & a touch of cream), the Orzo Risotto Zucca & Salsiccia (orzo risotto with pumpkin cream, fresh sausage & pecorino, finished with truffle oil) & Nodino di Vitello al Tartufo (veal chop with fresh Italian black truffle).
Across our Cicchetti restaurants, pasta highlights on the summer menu include the Rigatoni ‘Nduja & Ricotta (consisting of tube pasta with spicy Calabrian ‘nduja & ricotta salata), and the Mezzelune al Granchio (filled pasta with handpicked crab meat, cherry tomato & chives).
For those who prefer seafood, we have also added some delightful new fish dishes to the summer menu: favourites include the monkfish wrapped in Parma ham, with pesto, fennel, asparagus & pistachio, and an octopus & broad bean salad with a Yuzu dressing.
The new meat dish highlight is the Tagliata di Vitello (sliced veal chop on the bone with Italian dressing).
Featuring on both the San Carlo & Cicchetti summer menus will be the Risotto Gamberi & Asparagus (classic risotto with king prawns, Argentinian prawns & asparagus in a mascarpone cream), and the Trofie Pesto & Stracciatella (trofie pasta with pesto, pine nuts & stracciatella).
Ready to transport to Italy this Summer? Book a table at your nearest San Carlo today and indulge in our new summer menu offerings.
How to Make An Italian Charcuterie Board
Whether you’re a “hostess with the mostess” or a novice in entertaining, creating an Italian charcuterie board is a fun and easy way to impress guests. This guide will walk you through everything you need – from selecting classic Italian meats like prosciutto and salami, to picking regional cheeses such as Parmigiano-Reggiano and Gorgonzola, plus tasty extras like olives, marinated artichokes, nuts, fruit, and crusty bread. With every element, we’ll offer flexible options for each element so you can customise your board with authentic Italian flavours and eye-catching variety that your guests are going to love.
What to Put on An Italian Cheese Board?
Before we dive into how to build an Italian charcuterie board step-by-step, let’s break down the key elements that make up a well-balanced and delicious spread.
Every board includes a mix of Italian cured meats, a selection of regional cheeses, and flavourful extras that add texture, colour, and contrast – think marinated vegetables, olives, fresh fruit, nuts, and bread or crackers. Each of these elements plays a role in creating variety and keeping your guests coming back for more.
Next, we’ll explore each of these categories in more detail and offer a few mouthwatering cheese board ideas & variations so you can mix and match to suit your taste.
Italian Cured Meats
Italian cured meats bring bold, savoury flavors and rich textures to your board, offering everything from silky and delicate slices to robust, peppery bites. Knowing what meats to add to your charcuterie board will help you achieve a variety of textures – from melt-in-your-mouth prosciutto to firmer, spiced salami – keeps the board interesting and satisfying.
Here are 5 Italian cured meats to choose from:
- Prosciutto di Parma – Delicate, buttery, and salty; pairs well with melon, figs, or soft cheeses.
- Salame Milano – Mild, finely ground, and smooth; delicious with aged cheeses and olives.
- Capocollo (Coppa) – Rich and slightly spicy with a marbled texture; great with crusty bread and pickled veg.
- Speck – Smoked and cured ham with a bold, smoky flavour; pairs beautifully with hard cheeses and nuts.
- Bresaola – Lean, air-dried beef with a tender texture and mild flavor; excellent with arugula and a splash of lemon.
Italian Cheeses
Italian cheeses add depth, creaminess, and a range of flavour to your charcuterie board – from sharp and crumbly to soft and buttery. The key is to include a variety of textures and intensities to complement the meats and other extras. These cheeses pair beautifully with fresh or dried fruits, honey, nuts, crusty bread, and even a splash of balsamic glaze, creating perfect sweet-salty bites with every combination.
Here are 5 Italian cheeses to choose from:
- Parmigiano-Reggiano – Nutty, salty, and crumbly; pairs well with honey, walnuts, or prosciutto.
- Gorgonzola Dolce – Creamy, tangy blue cheese; great with pears, figs, or a drizzle of balsamic.
- Pecorino Romano – Hard, salty sheep’s milk cheese; excellent with spicy meats and olives.
- Taleggio – Soft, washed-rind cheese with a rich, buttery flavor; delicious with crusty bread and cured ham.
- Burrata – Creamy and fresh with a delicate flavour; perfect with cherry tomatoes, basil, or crostini.
Fresh Fruit & Vegetables
Fresh fruits and vegetables will add brightness, colour, and a refreshing contrast to the rich meats and cheeses on your Italian charcuterie board. Juicy fruits bring sweetness that balances salty or spicy bites, while crisp or marinated vegetables offer a tangy crunch that cuts through creamy textures. They’re not just tasty fillers – they enhance each bite and will make your board feel vibrant and well-rounded.
Here are 5 fresh fruits and vegetables to choose from:
- Grapes – Sweet and juicy; pair well with sharp cheeses like Pecorino or salty salami.
- Figs – Soft and honey-like; complement creamy cheeses like Gorgonzola or Burrata.
- Cherry tomatoes – Bright and juicy; great with mozzarella or prosciutto.
- Marinated artichoke hearts – Tender with a tangy kick; pair perfectly with hard cheeses and crusty bread.
- Cucumber slices – Cool and crisp; a refreshing contrast to spicy meats and rich cheeses.
Nuts, Bread and Crackers
Extras like nuts, bread, and crackers help tie everything together on an Italian charcuterie board, offering crunchy, toasty, or chewy textures that complement the richness of the meats and cheeses. They add balance, variety, and a satisfying base for stacking your favourite pairings.
Here are 5 extras to to choose from:
- Marcona almonds – Buttery and slightly salty; pair well with firm cheeses like Parmigiano-Reggiano.
- Walnuts – Earthy and crunchy; delicious with blue cheeses like Gorgonzola.
- Sliced ciabatta or baguette – Chewy and hearty; perfect for piling with meats and soft cheeses.
- Grissini (Italian breadsticks) – Light and crisp; great for wrapping with prosciutto or dipping in spreads.
- Rosemary crackers – Savoury and fragrant; pair beautifully with creamy cheeses and fruit preserves.
How to Make An Italian Charcuterie Board: A Step-by-Step Guide
Now you’ve got all the ingredients for your charcuterie board, the next step is putting it all together!
Building an Italian charcuterie board is all about layering flavour, texture, and visual appeal. Start with the largest elements first and work your way down to the smaller details, aiming for balance and variety across the board.
Follow these 5 simple steps to bring it all together:
Step 1: Choose your board and layout – Use a wooden board, slate, or large platter, and plan where your main elements will go.
Step 2: Arrange the cheeses – Place your cheeses around the board, spacing them out and cutting some into slices or chunks for easy grabbing.
Step 3: Add the cured meats – Fold or roll meats your chosen meats, and nestle them near cheeses they pair well with.
Step 4: Fill in with fruits, veggies, and extras – Add pops of colour and freshness with fresh and/or marinated fruits and vegetables.
Step 5: Finish with nuts, bread, and crackers – Tuck in crunchy elements and carbs to fill gaps and create layers of texture throughout your board.
All that’s left to do is pair with your favourite wine, serve and enjoy with good company.
FAQs about Italian Charcuterie Boards
What is an Italian charcuterie board called?
The Italian equivalent of a charcuterie board is called an antipasto platter (piatto di antipasto), and is traditionally served before the main meal. While similar to a charcuterie board in style and purpose, it leans heavily into regional Italian ingredients and reflects the country’s diverse culinary traditions. It’s all about variety, balance, and offering something for everyone to nibble on before the main course.
What is the 3-3-3 rule for charcuterie boards?
The 3-3-3 rule for charcuterie boards is a go-to formula to help you build a well-balanced and visually appealing spread without overthinking it. It suggests including; 3 types of meats, 3 types of cheeses & 3 types of extras.
Next time, why not book a table at your nearest San Carlo and order our famous San Carlo Antipasto plate? It won’t disappoint!
6 Traditional Italian Easter Foods You Need to Try
Easter in Italy, or Pasqua, is a time to gather with loved ones, enjoy festive meals, and celebrate the season of renewal. It’s customary to greet others with Buona Pasqua – how you say “Happy Easter” in Italian. During this celebratory time, food plays a central role, with a mix of savoury and sweet dishes served throughout the day.
Before diving into our countdown of the most popular Italian Easter foods, it’s important to note that traditional Italian Easter meals are typically divided into six distinct courses:
- Antipasti (appetizers)
- Prima (first course)
- Secondi (second course)
- Contorni (side dishes)
- Dolci (desserts)
- Digestivo (to end the meal)
Now, let’s explore the delicious foods that bring Italian Easter celebrations to life!
6 Traditional Italian Easter Foods for a Holiday Feast
To help you experience the true flavours of an Italian Easter, we’ve compiled a list of the most popular traditional foods, based on insights from expert Italian chefs. From savoury to sweet, these dishes are beloved across Italy and capture the essence of this special holiday.
1. Italian Style Lamb
Lamb is a traditional Italian Easter dish, symbolizing purity and sacrifice, and is often served as a nod to Christian heritage. It’s commonly roasted or prepared as abbacchio (young lamb) in various regional styles, sometimes with garlic, rosemary, and olive oil for added flavour – although how the meat is prepared will usually differ from region to region.
2. Italian Egg Dishes
Eggs, representing new life and renewal, play a central role in many Italian Easter meals. Traditional Italian egg dishes, like Torta Pasqualina and Brodetto Pasquale, are staples of Easter celebrations.
Torta Pasqualina is a savoury pie filled with eggs, ricotta, and spinach, often made with a flaky pastry to symbolize the resurrection and the new season. Brodetto Pasquale is a rich fish stew, often accompanied by eggs, reflecting Italy’s coastal traditions and Easter’s connection to renewal and life. These dishes are deeply rooted in Italian heritage and regional flavours, making them a delicious way to celebrate Easter with family.
3. Italian Style Vegetables
Green vegetables are a key part of Italian Easter dinners, symbolizing the arrival of spring and renewal. Artichokes, often sautéed with garlic and olive oil or stuffed, are a spring favourite, especially in central and southern Italy. Fava beans are also common, eaten raw with olive oil or prepared in a simple stew.
Asparagus and broccoli, often blanched or roasted with lemon and olive oil, adds a fresh, grassy flavour that reflects the season’s abundance. These dishes celebrate the vibrant, fresh produce of spring, offering light, flavourful accompaniments to the rich main courses of Easter.
4. Italian Easter Cake
Schiacciata, typical of Tuscany, is a sweet, flat cake infused with olive oil and often flavoured with oranges or anise, providing a fragrant, citrusy sweetness. Pastiera Napoletana, a beloved dessert from Naples, is a sweet ricotta and wheat cake with hints of orange blossom, creating a fragrant, creamy, and slightly citrusy flavour.
Each cake reflects the unique traditions and tastes of its region, making them a festive and indulgent part of the Easter feast.
5. Italian Easter Bread
What is Italian Easter bread you might ask? Italian Easter bread is a symbolic and festive treat enjoyed during the holiday, typically made with sweet or savoury dough and often shaped into intricate forms.
Casatiello, from Naples, is a savoury bread filled with cheese, salami, and eggs, representing abundance and celebration. Braided bread, found in central and southern Italy, is often sweet and adorned with colourful sprinkles or hard-boiled eggs, symbolizing life and renewal. In the north, Panettone is a fluffy, fruit-filled bread, traditionally served as a dessert during Easter. Each of these breads reflects the regional traditions and flavours of Italy, making them a delicious and meaningful part of any Italian Easter feast.
5. Italian Easter Pie
What is Italian Easter pies are savoury or sweet pies that hold special significance during the Eater period.
Pizzagaina, a savoury ricotta and egg pie with cured meats and cheese, is a traditional Easter dish from the regions of Campania and Lazio, often served as a main course. In Italy, pies are a beloved part of Italian Easter dinners and feasts, each reflecting regional flavours and holiday traditions.
By bringing these authentic Italian dishes into your Easter celebration, you can enjoy a true taste of Italy, from savoury pies and lamb to sweet breads and cakes. Whether you’re preparing a festive meal for family or simply exploring new recipes, these beloved dishes will add a special touch to your holiday table.
FAQs about Italian Easter Celebrations
What do Italians give for Easter?
For Easter, Italians traditionally exchange gifts that celebrate the season and the joy of the holiday. Common gifts include chocolate eggs, Easter baskets filled with sweets, candies, or paschal eggs, are also popular. In some regions, people gift artisanal foods like cheeses, salumi, or special Easter breads. Additionally, flowers, especially lilies and handcrafted items are given to loved ones.
What do Italians eat for breakfast on Easter?
A traditional Easter breakfast often includes colazione dolce, or a sweet breakfast, with treats like colomba di Pasqua and chocolate eggs. Alongside these, it’s common to have a cup of espresso or a cappuccino, sometimes paired with fresh fruit or cheese. The meal is often light but celebratory, setting the tone for the larger family feast later in the day.
How do Italians celebrate Easter?
Italians celebrate Easter with family gatherings, attending church services and enjoying a festive meal. They exchange chocolate eggs, participate in regional traditions like the Scoppio del Carro in Florence, and enjoy Pasquetta (Easter Monday) with picnics and outdoor activities.
Why not join us for an Easter meal at San Carlo and keep the celebrations going? Buona Pasqua!
Led by our Head of Wine, Dario Barbato, members of the San Carlo team recently made the trip to the beautiful Piedmont region in northwest Italy, to expand their wine knowledge and finalise the new blend of our house wines: Remigio Bianco and Remigio Rosso.
As a region renowned for its wine production, Piedmont is especially famous for its exceptional red wines, particularly Barolo and Barbaresco, along with delightful white wines like Gavi.
Over the course of the trip, the team had the opportunity to visit several key vineyards and wine producers within the Piedmont landscape. This included Pico Maccario, where they learned about the production of Barbera d’Asti, a red wine made from the Barbera grape.
The team spent time in the picturesque area of Langhe, where they gained a deeper understanding of the meticulous care and dedication that goes into producing every glass of wine in this celebrated region.
Here, they were exposed to various winemaking techniques – one known as “pumping over” – a process which involves pumping juice upwards from the bottom of the tank and splashing it over the cap, enhancing its color and aroma. This particular technique plays a crucial role in developing the wine’s depth and complexity, and is an integral part of the overall winemaking process.
No visit to Piedmont would be complete without indulging in its rich culinary heritage. During their stay, the team savoured traditional Piedmontese dishes, including succulent Fassona beef, a popular delicacy that originates from the Piedmont area.
With plans to finalise our house wines in the coming weeks, the new blends will feature a lower alcohol content and place more emphasis on the aromatic profile;
“This shift aligns with current market and consumer trends that favour lighter, more aromatic wines, making them more versatile for pairing with a wide range of dishes”, Dario explained.
Overall, the trip to Piedmont was an invaluable experience that will not only enhance San Carlo’s future wine offerings, but has also strengthened the team’s knowledge and enthusiasm for the craft of winemaking.
We are excited to share these insights and our newly crafted wines with our guests in the months to come!
Mother’s Day is the perfect time to celebrate the incredible women in our lives, and what better way to show your appreciation than with an unforgettable Mother’s Day lunch at San Carlo? Combining authentic Italian cuisine with exceptional service, our restaurants provide the perfect setting to make this special occasion truly memorable.
Mother’s Day Lunch Ideas
Whether you’re planning a leisurely long lunch, a refined afternoon tea, or a traditional Mother’s Day Sunday lunch, San Carlo offers a variety of dining options to suit every taste. Here are some ways to treat your mum on Mother’s Day 2025:
A La Carte Dining
For a personalised and indulgent Mother’s Day lunch, explore San Carlo’s extensive A La Carte menu. With a selection of traditional Italian dishes, from classic carpaccio and creamy risottos to perfectly cooked seafood and handmade pasta, there’s something for every palate. Whether your mum enjoys rich, hearty flavours or light, delicate dishes, our chefs prepare each plate to perfection, ensuring a dining experience she will cherish.
Traditional Mother’s Day Sunday Lunch
If you’re looking for a traditional Mother’s Day Sunday lunch, our Hale and Alderley Edge venues offer a delectable Sunday Roast Menu alongside the A La Carte options. Enjoy succulent cuts of beef, tender lamb, and flavoursome chicken, all served with crisp roast potatoes, seasonal vegetables, and a generous drizzle of our rich, homemade gravy. Finish your meal with a classic Italian dessert, the perfect sweet touch to a special day.
Cicchetti – Italian Small Plates for Sharing
For a relaxed yet authentic Italian dining experience, visit San Carlo Cicchetti in Manchester, London Covent Garden or London Piccadilly. Inspired by the Venetian tradition of cicchetti, our small plates menu is perfect for sharing with loved ones. Choose from a selection of expertly crafted dishes, such as bruschetta with creamy burrata, perfectly seared scallops, and delicate handmade ravioli. Paired with a glass of wine or prosecco, it’s the ideal way to enjoy an intimate Mother’s Day lunch.
Elegant Mother’s Day Afternoon Tea
For a sophisticated and leisurely Mother’s Day lunch idea, treat your mum to Afternoon Tea at Gran Cafe, Manchester. Enjoy a selection of freshly brewed teas, delicate finger sandwiches, warm scones with clotted cream and jam, and exquisite Italian pastries. This elegant tradition offers the perfect opportunity to relax and spend quality time together, making Mother’s Day 2025 one to remember.
The Perfect Mother’s Day Gift – San Carlo Gift Voucher
If you’re looking for a thoughtful gift, a San Carlo Gift Card allows your mum to enjoy the San Carlo experience at her convenience. Whether she chooses a long, indulgent Mother’s Day lunch or an evening of fine dining, this gift is a wonderful way to show your appreciation.
This Mother’s Day, gather your loved ones, raise a toast to the incredible women in your life, and celebrate in style at San Carlo.
Book Now for Mother’s Day 2025
As the new year dawns and resolutions are set, many of us are seeking healthier lifestyle choices, including cutting back on alcohol. San Carlo restaurant understands this desire and is thrilled to introduce an exquisite lineup of non-alcoholic Everleaf mocktails. Whether you’re a designated driver, taking a break from booze, or simply curious about unique flavours, these drinks offer a sensational experience without the alcohol. Let’s explore the vibrant world of Everleaf mocktails available at San Carlo this January.
Etere: Herbal, Bubbly, and Spicy
Kickstart your taste adventure with Etere, a delightful concoction that harmonizes Everleaf Forest, pineapple, and passion fruit. This cocktail presents a herbal base with a bubbly texture and a spicy finish that dances on your palate. Etere is perfect for those who crave a drink that is both sophisticated and invigorating.
Terra: Fruity, Fresh, and Velvety
For a drink that’s as refreshing as a summer breeze, try Terra. This fruity delight combines Everleaf Mountain with raspberry, strawberry, apple, and lime. The result is a fresh and velvety cocktail that tantalizes your taste buds, offering a burst of nature’s finest flavors in every sip. Terra is a must-try for fruit enthusiasts seeking a non-alcoholic indulgence.
Fuoco: Herbal, Citrussy, and Tropical
Experience the exotic allure of Fuoco, a cocktail that combines the herbal richness of Everleaf Forest with the creamy texture of coconut cream, the bittersweet notes of Crodino, and the zest of cranberry juice and lime. This citrusy and tropical masterpiece is an ideal choice for those who love a complex and invigorating flavour profile.
Acqua: Fruity, Tropical, Refreshing, and Revitalising
If you’re in search of a drink that transports you to a sunny paradise, Acqua is your go-to mocktail. With a blend of Everleaf Mountain and Everleaf Forest, enhanced by the juicy freshness of watermelon and lime, this cocktail is fruity, tropical, refreshing, and utterly revitalising. Acqua is a delicious escape from the winter blues.
Aria: Fruity, Fresh, and Revitalising
Last but not least, Aria brings a breath of fresh air to your mocktail experience. This fruity mix features Everleaf Marinewith raspberry, lime, mint, and a splash of lemonade. The result is a fresh and revitalising drink that’s perfect for those who appreciate a crisp and zesty flavor. Aria is a refreshing choice to complement any meal.
These Everleaf mocktails at San Carlo are more than just drinks; they are an artful blend of nature’s finest ingredients, crafted to provide a memorable, non-alcoholic experience. Visit San Carlo this January and indulge in these exquisite concoctions, perfect for embracing a healthier lifestyle without sacrificing flavour. Cheers to new beginnings and delightful discoveries!
When planning a theatre night, choosing the right dining experience is crucial for an unforgettable evening. San Carlo, known for its prime locations near major theatres across the UK, offers the perfect blend of convenience, ambiance, and culinary excellence. Whether you’re attending a performance at the historic Old Vic in Bristol, enjoying a show in London’s vibrant West End, or catching a concert at Manchester’s new Co-op Live Arena, San Carlo is your ideal dining destination.
Prime Locations
One of the standout features of San Carlo is its strategic positioning near some of the UK’s most iconic theatres. The San Carlo restaurant in Bristol is conveniently located close to the Old Vic Theatre, making it an excellent choice for both pre-show dining and post-performance celebrations.
In London’s bustling West End, San Carlo is just a five-minute stroll from major theatres, allowing for a relaxed meal without the stress of travel. This proximity ensures you can enjoy a delightful dining experience before heading to a show.
For those in Manchester, San Carlo Fumo is situated near the lively theatre scene, only a short metro ride from the new Co-op Live Arena. Whether you’re attending a matinee or an evening performance, San Carlo’s convenient location makes it a top choice for theatre-goers.
Exquisite Culinary Experience
Renowned for its authentic Italian cuisine, San Carlo boasts a thoughtfully curated menu that caters to various tastes and dietary needs. From classic pasta dishes and risottos to fresh seafood and delectable meats, every dish is crafted from the finest ingredients.
Start your evening with an assortment of antipasti, perfect for sharing with friends or family. The pre-theatre menu is designed to be both satisfying and efficient, ensuring you have plenty of time to reach your show on schedule.
After the curtain falls, indulge in a selection of desserts or savor a late-night coffee. The inviting ambiance of San Carlo provides a wonderful space to unwind and reflect on the highlights of your theatre experience.
Every San Carlo location features unique decor that harmonizes modern elegance with classic Italian charm, enhancing your overall theatre outing. The attentive staff contribute to a memorable dining experience, ensuring each visit is enjoyable.
In summary, San Carlo offers the ultimate dining experience for theatre enthusiasts throughout the UK. With its prime locations, exquisite menu options, and inviting atmosphere, it’s no wonder that San Carlo is a favored choice for both pre and post-theatre meals. So, the next time you plan a theatre night, consider San Carlo for a seamless and delightful dining experience that enhances your evening of entertainment.
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