A MIDDLEWICH restaurant has reopened with a fresh new look.

Il Padrino on Wheelock Street is back open for business following a refurbishment around nine weeks in-the-making.

Owners of the Italian restaurant Alberto and Claire Halluni couldn’t be happier with how things turned out and are hoping the changes will help put more bums on seats.

They said: “We are thrilled to be open again after a nine-week refurbishment.

“The restaurant looks absolutely incredible.

“We have introduced a high-quality, relaxing bar with beautiful seating and an amazing ambience.

“Everything from the front right through to the bathrooms has all changed.

“You really don't need to be in any city centre when you have Il Padrino on your doorstep.”

Il Padrino closed at the end of April for the refurbishmentIl Padrino closed at the end of April for the refurbishment (Image: Supplied)

Il Padrino closed at the end of April for the refurbishment.

It came as the restaurant experienced one of its worst weeks to date.

“The hospitality industry at the minute is tough,” Alberto said at the time

“The increase in costs overall has had a huge impact.

“The problem is restaurants and bars can't put too much inflation on their prices otherwise we risk losing more business.

“I really do hope the refurbishment puts more bums on seats.”

The restaurant's owners hope the new look will help attract more customersThe restaurant's owners hope the new look will help attract more customers (Image: Supplied)

While closed for the refurbishment, Il Padrino picked up the prize for ‘Best Dining Experience’ at the 2024 English Hospitality Awards.

READ MORE: Popular restaurant named one of nation's best 

The restaurant was reopened on Wednesday (July 3) by the deputy mayor of Middlewich, Cllr Garnet Marshall.

Before cutting the ribbon, he said: “On behalf of Middlewich mayor Simon Whittaker and the town council, we would like to wish Alberto and the team in bocca al lupo [Italian for good luck] for tonight’s opening.

“Il Padrino’s been here now for a long time and with the reopening, we hope it goes from strength to strength.”

The restaurant reopened on Wednesday (July 3)The restaurant reopened on Wednesday (July 3) (Image: Supplied)

Alongside the changes to the interior, Il Padrino has now launched a new website and online booking system - www.ilpadrinomiddlewich.com.