ITALIAN is the latest cuisine to be trialled by Paddy Smith's Red and Blue restaurant brigade who have already carved out a strong name for themselves on Liverpool's Hanover Street with not one, but two of the city centre's most popular eating spots.

It's one of those restaurants that it would be very simple to spend a small fortune in, and while away an afternoon nibbling on various snacks."

With Spanish tapas and brasserie dishes attracting legions of loyal followers to Michelin recommended Hanover Street Social and Salthouse Tapas, the team have turned their hands to a third venture.

Salthouse Bacaro, on Castle Street, launched night (Thursday) and sees managers Nathan Poole and Caryn Phillips at the helm.

It was a packed out affair with every seat filled, not to mention every wine and cocktail glass, bowl and plate - but not for long.

Iberico ham charcuterie boards, fritto misto and chicken saltimbocca with apple saw to that: dishes that could well mark this Italian out amid much stiff competition across the city.

The Salthouse Bacaro teamThe Salthouse Bacaro team

Nestled opposite independent hotel 62 Castle Street and WAG favourite San Carlo, Salthouse Bacaro has entered the Italian food scene with a bang, taking £3,000 on its first day.

 It's one of those restaurants where it would be very simple to spend a small fortune in, and while away an afternoon nibbling on various snacks.

Cheers Bacaro, we shall be back.

Salthouse Bacaro, 47 Castle Street, Liverpool, L2 9SH. 0151 665 0047. Website here. Twitter at @SalthouseBacaro

Follow Niamh Spence at @missnspence