In 2025, the family-run group will embark on a major international expansion, including its highly anticipated debut in the United States, as well as openings in Morocco, Bahrain, and Egypt, and significant investments in the UK.
The flagship launch of San Carlo in Miami, set for Spring 2025, marks a momentous leap as the group’s first venture into the US market. Known for its modern dining experience, the group plans to bring its signature Italian hospitality and premium ingredients to Miami’s A-list dining scene.
San Carlo’s international success continues with new openings scheduled in key markets. Following the Miami launch, the brand will debut in Morocco, showcasing San Carlo’s commitment to bringing Italian cuisine to diverse global markets.
The group will expand further into the Middle East in the summer with a new San Carlo restaurant in Bahrain, a second location building on the success of its existing venue Cicchetti which opened in 2018 in the region, where it quickly became a favourite among locals and visitors alike.
Following a successful pop up in 2024, another key opening will be a permanent San Carlo restaurant in Egypt, set to launch in Autumn this year.
Marcello Distefano, CEO of San Carlo Group, said:
“2025 is set to be a defining year for San Carlo. Our expansion continues to focus on blending traditional flavours with a contemporary approach, offering a refined experience that goes beyond the typical Italian restaurant. From our established locations in the Middle East and Asia to the much-anticipated Miami debut, we’re excited to bring a taste of Italy to new diners. Expanding into the U.S. with our first Miami location, and our continued growth into Bahrain, Morocco, and Egypt reflects the passion for our authentic Italian cuisine. We look forward to welcoming guests to these exceptional new spaces.”
Closer to home, San Carlo’s much-loved Manchester flagship will undergo a refurbishment, solidifying its position as a cornerstone of the UK’s dining scene. Spring 2025 will see the relocation of Cicchetti Piccadilly to a new, larger site in St James’s,London.
Designed by award-winning Fettle Design, the new venue will span two floors, offering 94 dining covers, 20 private dining covers, and 10 bar seats, complete with a wine cellar and bespoke interior features. The renowned Alto by San Carlo terrace at Selfridges, London, is also in line for a full refurbishment in Spring.
San Carlo’s journey has been marked by a steadfast dedication to quality. Every dish is crafted using only the finest ingredients sourced from Italy’s best markets.
Over the past two decades, San Carlo has successfully launched iconic restaurants in cities including Dubai, Bangkok, Riyadh, Doha, and Jeddah, proving its ability to thrive on the global stage.
Each new location is thoughtfully designed to embrace the local culture while staying true to its Italian heritage.
As the group’s Manchester flagship prepares for its 20th anniversary, San Carlo is also embracing the future with bold ambition, marking this year with a legacy built on passion, innovation, and a deep love for Italian cuisine.
