By Pam McClounie City centre reporter

Last updated at 11:48, Tuesday, 31 July 2012

For years Italian Gian Franco Sanna wanted to open his own restaurant – and his dream has come true.

Gian Franco

The 38-year-old, who is the manager of Adriano’s in Rickergate will open Sannas at the end of August.

The restaurant will be on the corner of Lowther Street and Lonsdale Street in premises currently called the Latte Lounge – Cafe Italiano.

Mr Sanna, who is originally from Sardinia, said: “I am really looking forward to having my own restaurant and I am looking forward to welcoming customers through my doors.

“I’ve worked for Franco Bertoletti for many years in his former Vivaldi’s restaurant and in Adriano’s. I’m very excited to have my own place and I hope people will come and support me.”

Mr Sanna says his restaurant will serve “modern Italian” food and classic dishes.

The name Sannas is his Italian family name.

The restaurant, which is currently closed for a refurbishment, will employ about 10 full and part time staff.

Mr Sanna said: “I am repainting the restaurant and putting new tiles down. I want to get an olive tree to put in the restaurant and make it look nice.”

The listed building, that was formerly Vivaldi’s restaurant, was once owned by Carlisle restaurateur Franco Bertoletti and most recently by Matteo Marras.

Mr Marras handed over the restaurant to his son Maff in April after eight years in charge. Maff, 26, turned the restaurant into a coffee bar after being inspired by working in Rome. It closed in June.

Across the street, work will hopefully start soon on turning the former Robertson’s bakery and Social bar on Lowther Street into a new bar and club called Chezmoi Carlisle.

First published at 11:26, Tuesday, 31 July 2012
Published by http://www.newsandstar.co.uk