CATERING for a broad clientele – at all times of the day – was the key objective with the menus at La Vita’s Piccolino e Vino in Newton Mearns.
The restaurant, whose name translates as ‘small with wine’ – a nod to it being the smallest outlet in the group – is open from 8.45am to 10pm daily (11pm on Friday and Saturday) serving breakfast, coffee, lunch and dinner; it also offers a takeaway menu.
Owner Marco Arcari said the menus were influenced by the local communities.
The focus is on traditional Italian cuisine, with authentic Italian produce sourced from suppliers such as Carnevale and Quattro Stagioni; fresh Buratta cheese is imported from Italy.
There are also a few Scottish twists on the menu, including Haggis Italiano (haggis on Italian toast with a fried egg) and Pizza Highlander (with haggis and Stornoway black pudding). Marco has also endeavoured to cater for the large Jewish community in the area with the likes of kosher bagels and salt beef, sourced from a supplier in London.
“We looked at the area and that’s what influenced the menu,” he explained.
“It is a big menu and it covers the whole spectrum – from casual dining to a full-blown meal.
“You’ve got to believe in what you’re doing and offer it at a fair and reasonable price with good service – everything has to go hand in hand. I believe if you charge a fair price for good quality and look after your customers you’ll be successful.
“We want to create a memorable experience.”
