Emporio Italia restaurant celebrates 20 years in business in Ilkley on Friday this week, 20th December.
The successful Italian restaurant on Railway Road, run by owner Luigi Pignanelli, together with his wife Sam and three children, Stephanie, Gianluca and Fabrizia, prides itself on offering its customers an authentic Italian dining experience, capturing the gastronomic delights, passion and ambience of an Italian taverna.
There have been many challenges throughout the past 20 years, including the COVID lockdowns and serious health issues for Luigi, but the family and the restaurant continue to thrive with the business boasting bookings months in advance.
Luigi, lovingly referred to as ‘The Godfather of Italian cuisine’, is proud of the restaurant’s longevity and continued popularity and says:
“It’s been a huge privilege and pleasure to have created and served my Italian dishes to my guests over the past 20 years at Emporio Italia, and prior to that at La Sila restaurant in Ilkley which I opened in 1989.”
“Celebrating the restaurant’s 20th anniversary with my amazing family by my side is my biggest achievement and I look forward to more years to come, serving delicious food made with love in the heart of the town. Thank you to all our customers for their support and friendship.”
To mark the 20th anniversary milestone, special edition VENT’ANNI T-shirts are available to purchase in the restaurant.