Eataly gets ready for opening

In a year when everything was different, it was comforting to know that some things – including our love for Italian food – will never change. Back in November, we shared the news that the world’s largest Italian food market Eataly is (finally, after much hinting) heading to London. Now, the team has released full details of the site set to open on 29 April.

Located right next door to Liverpool Street station in Broadgate, you’ll know to expect big things if you’ve been to an Eataly before. The full details, though, have exceeded our expectations. In line with the brand’s ‘eat, shop, learn’ mantra, this weekend guests will be able to visit Eataly London’s food market and retail areas, alongside restaurants offering takeaway and its outdoor dining space Le Terazza di Eataly. On the ground floor, takeaway options include Roman-style pizza from Pizza all Palla, fresh pasta at Pasta Fresca Bar, as well as paninis, salads, and focaccia. Select products will also be available for delivery.

When allowed to reopen in May, the 42,000 square foot space will also have three restaurants – including fine dining restaurant Terra -, three bars, six smaller food spots, and a cooking school. The shop will sell more than 5,000 products, plus there will be a bakery, butcher, a winery with more than 2,000 wines on offer, and a zero-waste produce refill store. We like the sound of the cheese laboratory where fresh mozzarella will be made daily, and the Via de Dolce selling Italian cakes and gelato.

The Eataly team acknowledges that “London has been a key target in our global expansion plans,” and the launch marks the brand’s 43rd opening across 16 countries. “We are delighted to finally open our Eataly London doors to bring our love of Italian gastronomy to the UK at a time when consumers and hospitality professionals appreciate and need it most,” says chief executive Nicola Farnetti. Most importantly, it will create 300 jobs in the hospitality and retail sectors, at a time when both industries need positive news.

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