Historic Cheshire Pub Reimagined as £1 Million Italian Restaurant

A historic pub in Cheshire has undergone a remarkable transformation into a glitzy Italian restaurant at a cost of £1 million. The owners of Raffaele Italian, Alessio Serra and Salvo Capasso, announced their plans earlier this year to convert the former Crown Hotel in Sandbach, which had been vacant for eight years.

The renovation has revitalized the 17th-century building, located on the town’s cobbled market square next to the notable landmark, The Saxon Crosses. The duo revealed their new venture, which features a stylish interior that pays homage to the pub’s rich history, alongside modern enhancements designed to attract a wider clientele.

Dynamic Dining Experience

The extensive refurbishment includes both formal and casual dining areas, divided by a striking dual-aspect fireplace. A significant feature is the large glass extension at the rear of the pub, which has created additional dining space. The owners expressed their excitement, stating, “We are thrilled to be bringing this historic location back to life and to continue serving our valued customers in an even more welcoming and spacious setting.”

The new restaurant boasts a capacity to accommodate more customers and cater to various functions, enhancing the overall experience. Reports from the Manchester Evening News highlight the appeal of the fully glazed veranda extension, which offers booth seating and dramatic olive trees integrated into the design.

Restoration and Renovation Highlights

A notable aspect of the renovation is the upper floor, which has remained unused for decades. This area will now host a private dining and function suite. Original roof lights have been uncovered and restored, adding character to both the main dining area and the private room.

One of the most captivating features is a dining table set beneath a large tree that grows through its centre, surrounded by an impressive selection of fine wines. Additionally, original terrazzo-style tiles discovered in the main entrance have been restored to complement the newly designed wood-panelled bar area.

Raffaele Italian is open Tuesday to Thursday from 12:00 to 21:00, extending to 21:30 on Fridays and Saturdays, with Sunday hours from 12:00 to 20:00 for lunch and dinner. The new venue includes a spacious open kitchen, enabling the chefs to expand the menu offerings. The restaurant will feature an extensive wine list, boasting around 100 selections, including Italian organic wines.

With this transformation, Alessio and Salvo aim to breathe new life into a cherished location, blending history with modern dining experiences, and creating a vibrant hub for the community.