Liverpool institution that started with an Italian orphan

A Liverpool institution that has served generations started when an Italian orphan was told he should open a restaurant.

Casa Italia is a much loved restaurant that has been providing the city with authentic Italian food since 1976 and has been operated by the same Italian family ever since.

Located at Stanley Street in the bustling Cavern Quarter, the restaurant sees people returning time and time again for their favourite dishes and has served generations of families. In September, it is set to celebrate its 48th birthday as staff say they will continue putting its customers first.

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Current owner Arran Campolucci-Bordi has worked there since he was 10, taking over from his dad Carlo. He has now been in charge for a decade.

He told the ECHO: "I think it's the atmosphere that makes it unique, something you can't replicate. We try to give the local people the best possible food for the cheapest possible price.

"We make all dishes fresh every single morning so it's fresh every day and I think the people of Liverpool enjoy that. We've served generations so there's that nostalgia there. We've seen people in here where the grandparents met at Casa Italia on their first date, it's lovely to see.

"When you factor in that history to the city, you can see why it's become so popular. We've remained consistent and improved over the years which isn't that usual really."

33-year-old Arran took over the business from his dad after he was diagnosed with a heart condition and suffered a stroke. But it was his grandfather Mario that began the Liverpool institution we know today.

Arran added: