A RESTAURANT with an "authentic taste of Italy" has officially opened its doors in Droitwich. 

An "exciting" new era has begun for the Pershore-based Italian restaurant Benvenuti after it welcomed its first customers into its new restaurant on Queens Street on Tuesday (February 20).

The second venue is hoping to be an addition to the Pershore restaurant, which will be closed for 18 months while work is carried out to restore the building after a "devastating" fire.

Worcester News: The design has kept the traditional character of the building.The design has kept the traditional character of the building. (Image: Benvenuti)"It has been a very exciting first day in business, and we are very happy to welcome everyone," said owner Luca Gallito.

"We have received a few bookings, and over the next few days, we are expecting it to rise.

"People in the town have heard about us before, and we have received an amazing welcome, and it's nice to be a great community.

Worcester News: Painting being put in the restaurant. Painting being put in the restaurant. (Image: Benvenuti)"We cannot wait to meet you all."

The restaurant opened in the former All'angelo's Italian restaurant, which closed on Saturday, January 27.

Mr Gallito said the team has been working hard to redecorate the building and add their twist to the venue.

Worcester News: Cosy: Benvenuti in Droitwich.Cosy: Benvenuti in Droitwich. (Image: Benvenuti)He said a massive change has been made upstairs by adding more seating and restoring the interior to its roots. 

Not many changes could be made to the property as it is a listed building but the team has added new furniture and worked on the wooden beams in the building.

Mr Gallito said the business has been looking for a new venue to complement its Pershore branch in Droitwich for some time.

Worcester News: Benvenuti has opened in Droitwich. Benvenuti has opened in Droitwich. (Image: Benvenuti)

"We have been looking for quite a while. We saw the Droitwich building and took the chance to start.

"The team is very happy. 

"After last year's unfortunate situation [at the Pershore branch], we had staff keen to stay on and start a new venture."

In December last year, a large fire broke out at the Pershore branch in Belle House on Bridge Street.

Seven fire engines were called to the three-storey building and were on the scene tackling the blaze for several hours.

The road was closed while neighbours were forced to evacuate their adjoining homes.

The restaurant has remained closed ever since.