Italian loved by celebs and Premier League footballers confirms takeover of former Rosso restaurant site in Manchester

Popular Italian restaurant Cibo has confirmed that it will be launching its first city centre location at the former Rosso site.

On Monday, Rosso, the restaurant co-owned by Rio Ferdinand announced it would be closing its doors for good after 14 years. The restaurant located at 42 Spring Gardens was based inside the historic Grade-II listed former Lancashire and Yorkshire Bank, and was a playground for the rich and famous.

Cibo, which has restaurants in Hale and Wilmslow, as well as Sasso in Disley, is also frequented by Premier League footballers, influencers, and musicians, and has said the launch of its first city centre site represents a 'significant milestone' for the restaurant chain.

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Speaking to the Manchester Evening News, Cibo's operations manager, Tony Arrucio said: "This is a perfect location for us as many of our loyal customers in Cibo Hale, Cibo Wilmslow and Sasso Disley have always asked us, when were opening in Manchester and were happy to announce that the Real Cibo is finally coming to the city centre.

"As we get ready for the opening, we wanted to extend our heartfelt gratitude to Rosso, as they have done an amazing job in the last 14 years.

"With that said were excited for this chapter for our group of family restaurants and to bring a real authentic Italian taste to the heart of Manchester.

"As far as opening date, while we don’t have a specific date in mind we aim to open by Mid November. We have allocated £2m for the refurb and are confident we will do this great location justice.