Gusto Italian in Oxford High Street has launched its new menu, with a focus on meat-free dishes and low and no alcohol cocktails.
The chain restaurant opened in December, creating 85 jobs on the site of the former Mitre pub.
The spring/summer season menu includes a Prosecco risotto and a plant-based steak.
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The restaurant which is renowned for its authentic Italian food has introduced new fresh, seasonal meals including vegetarian and plant-based options and a 'Mindful Drinking' collection, after research found that a quarter of Gusto guests were choosing to eat less meat as well as looking for low and no alcohol drinks when dining out.
The new menu has been inspired by research trips to Italy, led by CEO Matt Snell and executive chef Graham Kirk.
The Burrata with watermelon tartare was developed after the team visited an authentic Italian formaggiaio and had the opportunity to make the cheese themselves.
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Kat Schofield, head of marketing at Gusto Italian, said: "As the go-to venue for special occasions, we are continually monitoring the latest food trends to ensure that our menus offer an exciting range of authentic Italian dishes that cater for all our guests whatever their tastes, dietary or lifestyle choices.
"The consumer research that was conducted at the start of the year emphasised the demand for meat-free meals and mindful drinking options, and the menu development team has come back with some stunning additions to our new menu.
"The vegan steak is a massive stride forward for meat free alternatives. We’re also introducing some wonderfully fresh and bright seasonal dishes that we know our guests will love.”
The plant-based steak has been launched along with new dishes that reflect the season such as Jerusalem Artichoke Ravioli, Crab Fettuccini and an incredible Prosecco and Saffron Risotto.
The steak, which Gusto says is a first for the industry, is made from plant-based proteins, coconut oil and beetroot, seasoned with a variety of herbs and spices, creating a delicious vegan option.
The new ‘Mindful Drinking’ collection includes some low and no alcohol drinks, including the Frozen Clean Margarita.
Founded in Cheshire in 2005, Gusto Italian has almost 600 employees, known as family members, across 14 restaurants.
The restaurant in Oxford features a 160-cover dining room complete with an open plan Theatre Kitchen and chef’s table Pizza Experience.
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The restaurant also features a cocktail lounge and bar where diners can enjoy an aperitif before sitting down for a meal. Upstairs there is a private 55-cover dining room available to hire for events, parties and celebrations.
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This story was written by Andy Ffrench, he joined the team more than 20 years ago and now covers community news across Oxfordshire.
Get in touch with him by emailing: Andy.ffrench@newsquest.co.uk
Follow him on Twitter @OxMailAndyF
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