Fiume now open: Francesco Mazzei brings the Mezzogiorno to Battersea Power Station
Friday 17 November 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 Francesco’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, Francesco 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.
Notes to Editors:
Fiume:
Address: Fiume, Circus West, Battersea Power Station, London SW8 5BN
Website: www.fiume-restaurant.co.uk
Reservations: reservations@fiume-restaurant.co.uk // 020 3904 9010
Social media: @fiume.london (Instagram), @fiumelondon (Twitter), Fiume London (Facebook)
About Francesco Mazzei:
Francesco Mazzei grew up in Calabria, and from a young age showed a keen interest in becoming a chef. In recent years he has made a name for himself as one of the most successful Italian chefs in London, as Chef Patron of Sartoria on Savile Row, Radici in Islington, and Fiume at Battersea Power Station.
About D&D:
D&D London is a group of luxury restaurants, bars and hotels based principally in London, but also with venues in Leeds, Paris, New York and Tokyo. Today D&D London owns and operates 34 restaurants, as well as an award-winning hotel.
About Battersea Power Station:
Battersea Power Station is one of central London’s largest, most visionary and anticipated new developments, comprising shops, restaurants, office spaces, new homes, community areas, a six-acre public park, a town square and a new tube station.
For further information, please contact Rose Hardy at Sauce Communications: rose.hardy@saucecommunications.com // 020 8600 3600