Vincenzo Margiotta - Director
What can we say? Vincenzo Margiotta is at the heart of Il Forno. He says he’s simply lucky to have a wonderful team. It’s been a hectic journey, Picinisco (a small town near the famous abbey of Montecassino, southern Italy) to Liverpool. On the way, he’s revisited his Italian roots and learnt a lot from family in Italy. Vincenzo Margiotta takes pride in visiting suppliers, searching for authentic ingredients, discovering the texture, scent and sheer delight of regional specialities.
Donato - Restaurant General Manager
Donato helps to make Il Forno a true Italian family restaurant - not just in spirit, but in fact, too. Donato’s baptism of fire in the restaurant business began when he was just thirteen. At fourteen, he worked in Italian restaurants in Germany. At twenty one, he opened his first restaurant. Donato’s spirit combined with brother Paolo’s delicious food makes for a fabulous dining experience.
Paolo – Head Chef
In Basilicata, they initiate their children into family cooking at a young age. Like Paolo, our incredibly talented head chef. He started working in family restaurants at the tender age of thirteen - learning how simple ingredients, prepared with skill, could bring dishes to life. And more than that - how they could bring joy to people. After becoming a chef, Paolo polished his skills across Italy - making a name for himself. And if the Italians recommend a chef? Who are we to disagree? Paolo calls his signature dishes ‘revisited Italian cuisine’ - taking the best, and making it even better. Bellissimo!
Alfonso – Restaurant Duty Manager
Alessio – Restaurant Supervisor
Alessio is from Sicily, where passion runs deep. No more so than the passion for food. In fact, Alessio began his restaurant career at the tender age of 14 - not surprising, because as he says, “Food and drink are part of the culture of my country. We embrace them at a very young age!” Alessio graduated as a professional waiter in the highly regarded Italian School of Catering. Now, he brings the Italian culture of hospitality to Il Forno. I think you’ll find it warm and welcoming - like Alessio.