Italian 'casual kitchen-brewery' chain hits UK with debut in former Jamie Oliver restaurant in Glasgow

An Italian restaurant group is to enter the UK with the opening of a site in a former Jamie Oliver eatery in Glasgow city centre.

Doppio Malto, which has carved out a reputation for its “casual kitchen-brewery” offering, currently operates 28 restaurants across seven Italian regions – and one in France.

It plans to open its doors in June in Glasgow’s George Square, creating more than 40 jobs for the city.

The 8,000-square-foot site, formerly occupied by Jamie’s Italian, is undergoing a major refurbishment, which will include the creation of a basement bar and a 180-seat restaurant.

Italian brewery-kitchen group Doppio Malto will enter the UK for the first time with a flagship site in Glasgow's George Square. Picture: Nicolò Salvatori

Doppio Malto’s ambitious goal is to open 100 restaurants throughout the UK following its rapid growth in Italy in recent years.

Chief executive and founder Giovanni Porcu said: “The past year has been incredibly tough for the restaurant sector, but finally there is a light at the end of the tunnel.

“Unlike more traditional Italian dining concepts, Doppio Malto represents modern Italy and its love of feel-good food, atmosphere and craft beer. I have no doubt that the people of Glasgow will embrace us with open arms and enjoy this unique new offering.

“Each and every Doppio Malto is renowned for its motto ‘un posto felice’ – a ‘happy place’ to enjoy genuine craft beers paired with hearty dishes. We are very excited to be bringing a flavour of modern Italy to the UK for the very first time.

“Glasgow is a wonderful city with a deep connection with Italy, so this felt like the natural place for us to lay our UK foundations.”

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