Valentino’s is a taste of Italy in the heart of Yorkshire
He opened his first family restaurant 30 years ago, in the heart of the market town of Bingley. His aim was to create the atmosphere of a family trattoria – capturing the essence of Italian dining.
Fresh ingredients were essential to producing the regional and traditional Italian dishes, home-made fresh pastas and family favourites - including lasagne and pizzas – that kept people coming time and again.
His success led to another restaurant opening in York about five years ago, but Valentino himself concentrated on the Bingley restaurant, where his customers had become his friends, and Alberto with other members of the family looked after its sister restaurant in York.
Valentino sadly lost his life during the covid pandemic – but the family legacy lives on in his spirit and in his name – with a third restaurant open in Scissett after a major refurbishment.
Food for the soul
Valentino’s motto was that eating was “food for the soul” – or ‘C’Cobo per L’anima’ in Italian.
The Italians like to take their time over food – with antipasti for starters, followed by meat, fish or chicken courses, pastas or pizzas and then sumptuous desserts.
Among the favourite dishes at Valentino’s are Frittura di Calamari – fresh calamari (squid) in a light batter and Lasagne, fresh pasta sheets layered with rich Bolognaise and béchamel sauce – just like Mama used to make!
There is a wide selection of regional Italian wines to choose from, as well as European and New World vintages and fine Champagnes for those special occasions.
Whether you’re looking for a romantic meal for two, a celebration party with family and friends, a meal out with colleagues, or a family gathering Valentino’s can accommodate you.
Family values
Because it is not a chain, but a family business, they say they can work hard, take less from the business and absorb some of the increasing costs – ensuring that prices remain good value and affordable for their customers.
With starters like the Fittura di Calamari and Funghi Saltati (mushrooms in a garlic and cream sauce), and pizzas and pasta dishes this is authentic quality food, at reasonable prices.
Because it is family-run the staff have a passion for what they are doing – it’s their business and their enjoyment – whether they are front of house or behind the scenes in the kitchen. Service is key to Valentino’s success and they want people to want to return again and again.
To find out more about the three Valentino’s restaurants at Main Street, Bingley; The Mount, York and the latest at Wakefield Road, Scissett, visit their website here.
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