A cornerstone of Italian dining in Liverpool, Il Forno is led by head chef and owner Paolo Cillo, whose passion for authentic cuisine is matched by his brother Donato Cillo, the restaurant’s general manager. Together, the pair have created a space that blends traditional flavours with contemporary flair, making Il Forno a favourite for birthdays, romantic dinners, family meals and group celebrations.
Step inside and you’ll find a setting that is both cosy and stylish. A marble-topped wraparound bar with green leather seating and parquet floors sets the tone, while large windows flood the space with light. The show-stopping centrepiece is the extraordinary wood-fired pizza oven, sculpted into the form of a giant face, glowing as it bakes artisan pizzas before your eyes.
The menu celebrates authentic Italian-Mediterranean flavours, with hand-rolled pasta, creamy risottos and antipasti made from premium ingredients, including extra-virgin olive oil imported from Basilicata. Signature dishes include burrata with rocket and rosemary oil, spaghetti carbonara and osso buco alla Milanese, alongside wood-fired pizzas, premium meats and seafood. Vegetarians and pescatarians are equally well catered for, with seasonal specials that showcase fresh produce at its best.
Il Forno also offers Sunday roasts with an Italian twist and the Bottomless Bocconcini experience, where guests enjoy unlimited prosecco, Aperol spritz, pornstar martinis or mocktails paired with modern and classic Italian dishes. To finish, desserts bring a taste of la dolce vita with tiramisu, panna cotta and gelato. The drinks list spans fine wines, signature cocktails and refreshing non-alcoholic options, ensuring there’s something for every palate.
With its dramatic interiors, family-led hospitality and menus that celebrate the richness of Italian cuisine, Il Forno Liverpool delivers an unforgettable dining experience in the heart of the city.