November 15, 2013 4.04 pm This story is over 123 months old

Sneak peek: Lincoln’s new Italian Bar Unico

First-look: Lincoln’s family run Italian Bar Unico is getting ready to open its doors. The Lincolnite went in for a sneak peek ahead of the opening.

The latest addition to Lincoln’s ‘little Italy’ is getting ready to open its doors and The Lincolnite went on a first-look tour of the family-run Bar Unico.

The traditional Italian bar is hoped to open for service on Saturday, November 16, after owner Giovanni Carchedi (29) will welcome guests to the bar on St Benedict’s Square for an evening launch event on November 15.

Giovanni, a former professional footballer, will be running the business in partnership with his mum Diana, who is well-known in the local community for her charity work.

Giovanni started his career at Nottingham Forest FC before transferring to Grimsby Town FC. He currently still plays football for Lincoln United.

Inside, the bar will have around 20 seats, as well as an additional outdoor area. Opening hours will initially be between 7.30am and 8pm.

From the counter, visitors will be able to buy limited traditional Italian beers, spirits and wines and coffee.

In addition, Bar Unico will serve freshly made ice cream (Gelato), kids treats and freshly made savouries, pizza and pastry.

A unique aperitivo menu – the Italian equivalent to Spanish tapas – will give customers a colourful, light option to lunchtime dining.

“We want adults to come along with their children, that is the whole emphasis of the ice cream and cakes side. People can enjoy a glass of wine in a place with a wholesome family atmosphere,” said Giovanni.

“Everything is homemade and freshly cooked on site, other than a few packaged cakes”, he continued. “It’s family run and family welcoming, it’s all part of the Italian ethos.”

Future plans include musical nights showcasing local artists and broadening the services offered. The team already includes one apprentice in customer care.

Although the Bar Unico team are gearing up for a grand opening, Giovanni says there is still lots to be done until the final product is finished.

“We are looking forward to the arrival of a friends artwork,” he said pointing out the shop front illustrations that have kept passers-by intrigued over the past few weeks.

Diana added: “The bar will give people a taste of authentic Italian life which is about family and friends coming together. It’s very sociable and it’s a very personal touch.

“We are interested in meeting the needs of the customers rather than just getting on with the business.

“We will have a rolling menu and will introduce Lincolnshire people to the concept of Italian breakfasts and busy-in-the-week lunches, whether they are flying in for a bite or a break from shopping.”