GLASGOW’S Italian Kitchen has been snapped up by city restaurateurs Richard Laciok and Marco Mozzachiodi for £1 million.

The operators, who own the 120-cover Viva Ristorante on the city’s Bothwell Street, were backed by Clydesdale Bank to complete the deal.

They acquired the Italian Kitchen on Ingram Street from Paul Stevenson, who has sold up to pursue other business interests. It is understood he is planning to open a new restaurant on Miller Street.

Mr Laciok and Mr Mozzachiodi, who have owned Via Ristorante for more than 10 years, have retained the 22-strong team at the Italian Kitchen, and are planning to make changes to the menu.

Some renovation works are also taken place at the restaurant.

Having been impressed by the culinary skills of the kitchen team, the operators intend to retain the identity of the 90-cover restaurant, which was built up by the previous owner over a 12-year period.

Mr Laciok said: “We’re extremely pleased to have become the new owners of The Italian Kitchen. We’ve got some great chefs and a very experienced front of house team, and the quality of the food is fantastic. Everything is fresh and homemade, from the bread to all the desserts and the ice-cream.

“Our speciality is freshly made authentic pizzas stonebaked in our feature wood stone oven.

“When the restaurant came onto the market we had to move quickly to secure the sale. Fortunately Clydesdale Bank recognised it as a good opportunity to expand and supported our growth ambitions. Its knowledgeable team also acted quickly to get the deal done and ensure it was completed on time.”

Clydesdale Bank’s Robert Gibson said: “Richard and Marco have built Viva Ristorante into a highly successful business with a reputation for good value, quality food.

"We have no doubts that they will make a similar success of The Italian Kitchen and look forward to working in partnership with them as they continue to develop the business.”