Big Mamma has taken over much of Europe with its unique Italian-style trattorie – including London, Paris and Madrid. Serving only the most authentic Italian cuisine, from Neapolitan pizzas to fresh pasta, it’s preparing to open its first spot in Birmingham later this year – with La Bellezza ready to open at Paradise on Chamberlain Square.
Inspired by the wild courtyards of Perugia, you’ll quickly forget you’re in the UK’s Second City. Bedecked floor to ceiling with ancient Italian artefacts, over 5,000 vintage bottles of liquor, and towering paintings of times gone by, La Bellezza is destined to become one of Birmingham’s most beautiful restaurants. Check out the glass chandeliers, emerald bar and bookcase filled with vintage novellas.
But La Bellezza is no ‘style over substance’. Napoli-born head chef Domenico has curated a menu where Italian produce, sourced directly from 170 artisans, takes centre stage. Pillowy-soft Neapolitan pizza, topped with Salvatore Corsone’s Mozzarella di Bufala, might be the star, but enjoy everything from burrata and prosciutto to start, to a finishing cocktails.
Pasta lovers shouldn’t overlook the homemade linguine, spaghetti, ravioli, pici and mafaldine. Tossed in the richest sauces, such as spiced Cornish lamb, slow-cooked in a San Marzano tomatoes ragu, or creamy truffle mascarpone, with shavings of fresh black Umbrian truffle. Plus, the classic carbonara is naturally served in 8kg pecorino wheels.
From elsewhere on the menu, you’ll also have to treat yourself to the towering 6-inch-tall lemon meringue pie or a giant caramel gelato-stuffed profiterole topped with masses of warm chocolate sauce. While you can’t enjoy true Italian cuisine without a glass of vino or two – with over 40 varieties of wine to choose from.
La Bellezza is due to open at Paradise Birmingham on November 29. To learn more about Big Mamma head here.