Situated in Upper Street, Islington, Vivo offers a relaxed, informal atmosphere. As with Italian life, upon taking a seat, the pressures of city life are immediately relieved.
Vivo is as much about style as substance, with the design being very rustic Italian. The walls are covered in large grey stones on one side and timber panels on the other with long concrete tables and tan leather chairs in the centre. A roof terrace, equally stylish, with wooden walls and plush seating, was also opened ready for summer, when seated here, you could be mistaken for thinking you are in Mama’s vineyard in the Italian countryside.
A 14-metre-long granite food counter contains the most tempting of desserts – tarts, mousses and, of course, tiramisus – each one delicately laid out in rows of five or six, along with the squid, olives and potato dishes.
The bar area is a wonderful focal point at the top of the restaurant with stone, glass and black marble, giving a nice modern area to enjoy an espresso and some of the amazing deserts on offer including traditional Cannoli’, Cheesecakes and a Chocolate & Raspberry Dome.
The food certainly keeps to the traditional Italian thinking, boasting produce from Mother Italy herself with tomatoes grown in one of her volcanic regions, so sweet that it leaves you wanting more. Opened by brothers Will & Ben Thompson, inspired by the culinary experiences of their childhood holidays to Italy. And by all accounts, it appears like they’ve done a pretty good job
Vivo’s helpful staff make it the perfect escape from city life.
02074245992 / 57-58 Upper Street Islington N1 0NY