Ciro’s Pizza Pomodoro: A Culinary Landmark
Located just a short distance from the iconic Harrods store in London’s Knightsbridge, Ciro’s Pizza Pomodoro attracts attention with its white three-story facade and a narrow entrance adorned with a black canopy featuring a tomato logo.
A Star-Studded Venue
Upon entering this Italian pub-restaurant, guests are greeted by walls lined with portraits of famous patrons such as Tom Hanks, Paul McCartney, and David Beckham, all smiling alongside the restaurant’s proud owner, Ciro Orsini.
A Vision for Entertainment
The 76-year-old founder recalls his initial vision for Ciro’s Pizza Pomodoro when he opened it in 1978. He aimed not just to provide excellent food and beverages, but to create a unique venue for live music and entertainment.
A Legacy of Excellence
Over the span of 47 years, Ciro’s Pizza Pomodoro has become renowned as the original establishment that led to an international chain of beloved celebrity-themed Italian restaurants owned by Orsini, including a location in Beijing.
A Journey from Boxing to Hospitality
Born in Naples in 1949, Orsini initially pursued a career in boxing, rising to prominence in Milan and Rome until military service interrupted his training. Upon his return, he decided to leave boxing behind and explore other opportunities, drawing from his early experiences in the restaurant industry.
Building a Culinary Empire
After moving to London, Orsini took over a floundering restaurant in 1978, investing a year into revitalizing it with entertainment and high-quality cuisine. He found that managing a restaurant echoed the determination required in boxing, ultimately bringing joy to patrons through food and music.
A Lasting Connection with China
Orsini’s love for China deepened when he opened an Italian restaurant in Beijing’s Sanlitun in the 1980s, succeeding in a market where Western culinary options were scarce. Despite having to close the Beijing restaurant due to lease constraints, he plans to host a “China Night” in London to celebrate Sino-British cultural exchange, continuing to honor the influence of Chinese flavors in his menu.
