I’ve been putting off writing about Regent Street. As the potential new heart of our town it has, until now remained life-less, waiting for a pulse. Well, this may be it. An exciting new venture - thankfully, not a hair salon - but a real Italian Deli, the kind you find in every town in Italy. It’s the bambino of four ardent men. Their mission, to bring the real flavour of Italian cooking to Cheshire.

Now, sadly, Knutsford is a long way from Italy. We’re happy to push our trolleys round Booths and buy pasta in shapes we recognise. So, are we ready for Via Via?

These four guys (three Italians and one Englishman) believe so. Passionately. And if we’re not, then its their mission to educate us – so says the dashingly-named Marco Dellapina, a local solicitor, descended from a long line of Italian restaurateurs, who has been planning the venture for three years. He wants to take us right away from spag bol and enlighten us with authentic Italian recipes. Commercial Director, Loris Fargnoli from Cassino, has used his experience in import and export to source a superb range of the finest ingredients from each region of Italy.

These you can buy at the deli counter, or enjoy prepared on the premises by the experienced resident Chef direct from Bergamo. Dishes are served up with flair and charm by Lello (aka Raffaele Merolle ex-Naples and Piccolinos). The fourth musketeer is Max Eaton. As Financial Director and Italian-food lover he wants customers to be inspired by the daily specials and the chance to experience the best of quality Italian food.  Go for breakfast, they’re open from 9.00. Enjoy what is, I’m told, the best coffee this side of Venice. Meet there for lunch or after work. Try Italian tapas. Discover what’s on the chopping boards and sample wines from a superb private cellar.

It sounds good. But, do we Northerners care enough about what we eat? Are we passionate enough about the quality of our balsamic vinegar, or will Booths own do?
Time will tell.
It’s certainly different. Its independent and brought to us with passion. And expertise. 
It has all the right ingredients, but the proof , as they say, is in the eating. Go and try this taste of Italy for yourself. I hope it sets some red-blooded life pumping through Regent Street.

Via Via Delicatessen,
17 Regent Street,
Knutsford,
Cheshire WA16 6GR


Girl About Town