A Taste of Italy in Warwickshire – Tavola Opens in Leamington
Hospitality with Heart: The Team Behind Tavola Proprietor Rob Singleton and front-of-house manager Luke Hampson lead a passionate team dedicated to exceptional service and memorable dining experiences.
The heart of South Warwickshire has welcomed a vibrant new addition to its culinary scene. Tavola, an Italian restaurant with a flair for the surreal and the traditional, has opened its doors in the historic 200-year-old venue on Clarendon Street, formerly known as 44 Café. Following an extensive refurbishment that pays homage to Italian surrealist art of the 1920s, Tavola officially opened on May 10th, bringing a fresh and imaginative dining experience to the area.
The transformation of this beloved venue was spearheaded by Birmingham-based design company Faber, who infused the space with a distinctive Italian charm. Proprietor Rob Singleton envisions Tavola as a tribute to the authentic bars and trattorias of Northern Italy and Rome, where exceptional ingredients and warm hospitality are the cornerstones of the dining experience.
“We feel we have created somewhere our neighbourhood can be proud of,” Singleton shares. “Our guests will always find a warm, open-armed welcome here. Our team, which includes locals from Leamington and Italy, are united by their passion for hospitality and their dedication to creating memorable dining experiences.”
The front-of-house team is led by Luke Hampson, a well-known figure to regular patrons, who continues his role as manager and mixologist. At the helm of the kitchen is Tuscan executive chef Martin Serafino, whose menu strikes a balance between tradition and innovation. Serafino’s culinary philosophy is rooted in encouraging diners to explore new flavors while celebrating the rich diversity of Italian cuisine.
“I’m very excited for this new menu,” Serafino enthuses. “I want to encourage people to try something they’ve never tried before and to celebrate the culinary traditions of Italy. There will be some experimenting, but my main goal is to share the beauty of my home country’s food.”
Tavola’s menu features a range of highlights, including Serafino’s signature Schiacciata sandwiches made with freshly pressed Tuscan focaccia, and a Bottomless Brunch Menu available daily from 11 am to 4 pm. The drinks menu, inspired by the aperitivo culture of Northern Italy, includes a selection of antipasti sharing plates, perfect for enjoying with after-work drinks.
Accessibility and inclusivity are key elements of Tavola’s design. Singleton, who is a wheelchair user, emphasizes the importance of these features. “We have completed the first phase of refurbishment and are planning further adaptations to include ramped access and an accessible toilet,” he explains.
The reopening of this historic venue marks a new chapter for Leamington’s dining scene, offering a vibrant and imaginative menu that is set to delight locals and visitors alike.
Photos by: Harrison Charles Design
