Francesco Mazzei opens Fiume today

Today marks the official opening of Fiume, Francesco Mazzei’s new modern Italian restaurant at the eagerly anticipated Battersea Power Station development. Fiume, which translates as ‘river’, is situated right on the bank of the Thames, with stunning views over the river and a large piazza-style terrace for guests to enjoy the traditional recipes of Mazzei’s homeland.

The restaurant pays homage to the Mezzogiorno, the Southern ‘boot’ of Italy that holds a special place in the heart of Calabrian native, Francesco, and a word that evokes a sense of home with wholesome, hearty recipes made with the fresh, vibrant ingredients from the Mediterranean.

Mezzogiorno has a rich culinary heritage encompassing eight distinctive regions, each of which is reflected in Fiume’s menu. A tempting selection of cicchetti and antipasti includes Saffron and mozzarella supplì di riso and Octopus with cannellini beans, served alongside freshly-made breads.

Handmade pastas follow, such as Burrata tortelli with hazelnuts and sage and Lamb ragout fettucine, while ‘Secondi’ include Beef tagliata and classic Aubergine parmigiana. In addition, Mazzei has brought several signature dishes south of the river, such as his Zucchini fritti, Seafood fregola and Tiramisu.

Launching at the beginning of December, guests will be welcomed to join a relaxed family-style weekend brunch, offering Eggs purgatorio; “The Italian Job”; and Frittata alongside the à la carte menu, all served in a relaxed atmosphere that reflects the laid-back Italian way of life.

A striking bar of flamed black granite is a focal point of the restaurant, offering both classic and contemporary Italian cocktails from renowned mixologist Simone Caporale, alongside a bespoke list of the finest Italian wines. Throughout the year, Fiume will host interactive events for the local community including wine tasting dinners, and exclusive cookery classes with Francesco Mazzei.

The design of Fiume has been overseen by Macaulay Sinclair, whose portfolio includes the likes of Hawksmoor, Dishoom, and Pittcue. The restaurant has a relaxed yet sophisticated feel, with the natural materials of oak, Carrara marble, and stone, offset by splashes of colour in the upholstery and clean lines of brass detailing. The expansive restaurant is flooded with natural light from the building’s glass façade, and the versatile space incorporates an open kitchen, bar with counter dining, as well as lounge seating and banquettes.

During the warmer months, the restaurant’s large terrace will be perfect for al fresco dining. Filled with lemon and olive trees, and rustic terracotta pots planted with aromatic rosemary and lavender, the space is set to transport guests to the sun-baked Mediterranean landscapes that have inspired the restaurant.

The restaurant is the third venture launched by Francesco Mazzei in partnership with D&D London. Francesco Mazzei oversees Fiume as Chef Patron, while Head Chef Francesco Chiarelli is responsible for the day-to-day running of the kitchen, the pair having worked together for many years at both L’Anima and Sartoria.