A LITTLE sprinkling of Italy has been added to the pan in Swindon’s Designer Outlet as classy Italian restaurant Carluccio’s opens its doors to the public.

Staff spent Thursday polishing cutlery and practising their cocktail shaking skills in preparation for their grand opening on Friday.

The diner, which has restaurants all over the country, will serve up an authentic Italian menu, including delicious Italian breakfasts, lunches, dinners and everything in-between.

Restaurant manager Kasia Kuzmicz said: “I feel amazing, I think it’s going to be great.

“The Outlet Centre is really impressive and everyone is very helpful. We have a lot of restaurants in different places and this is one of the best.

“Our staff are brilliant and we’ve had some really positive feedback after our dummy run today.”

Waitress Jade Jefferies, 20, said: “It’s really nice here. The clientele that come through have been lovely so far.

“We do amazing coffee. I never used to drink coffee until I started working here.”

Carluccio’s ingredients are mainly sourced from small Italian producers and the dishes are modern takes on classics.

Tina Cumpstey, centre manager, said: “We’re delighted to welcome Carluccio’s and a little slice of Italy to McArthurGlen Designer Outlet Swindon and to continue to offer more dining choices to our customers.”

The new restaurant will create 35 new full-time positions at the outlet and join Ed’s Easy Diner, Wagamama, and Patisserie Valerie, as the latest addition to the outlet’s international dining portfolio.

Neil Wickers, Carluccio’s chief executive, said: “We’re very happy to expand our relationship with McArthurGlen Designer Outlets.

"This latest Carluccio’s opening at Swindon’s leading shopping destination follows on from joining a stellar line-up of retail and restaurant brands at Cheshire Oaks Designer Outlet earlier this year.

“We are confident Carluccio’s will be well received by visitors to the outlet, with a versatile, family-friendly food and drink offer, and late opening hours for evening shoppers and diners.”

The diner also contains a shop where customers can buy a range of products including pesto, pasta and Prosecco and preserves such as olive oils, balsamic vinegars, and chocolate, all made using time-honoured recipes, handed down from generation to generation.