Paradiso & Inferno Restaurant is situated in the heart of theatre land in the strand, from most of the west ends top theatres including The Adelphi Theatre, Strand Palace Theatre and The Lyceum Theatre. It offers Italian food at competitive prices served by professional waiters (not students) in a buzzy atmosphere. Mr Lauro Mortali who in the Italian restaurant community, is as well known as the late Pavarotti in then Opera world having opened more than 12 restaurants when he was a few years younger opened the restaurant in 1966. Now in his seventies the bulk of the work is left to his son Paolo, a Phil Jupitus Lookalike, though he claims to be slimmer and better looking. The manager Manolo has been in the business for 15 years, the chef Gianni has been here since the late 60s so you know you are in good hands.

The trade is full of theatre lovers and some regulars who have come to visit us since the day that we opened. Another regular was the wonderful late Lord William Deeds who lived well into his 90s and still dined here once or twice a week. His autobiography to this day states that his favourite restaurant was Paradiso Inferno, he went on to state that many important decisions were made here in the company of Sir Trevor McDonald and the Thatchers. The theory is, to get the best quality fresh products, keep it simply but very tasty and give portions that send you straight home after dinner not via the kebab shop and at a good price. Paradiso Inferno literally means heaven and hell; Alighieri La Divina Comedia inspired the name. The restaurant is in turn, spilt onto two floors the top being heaven the bottom being hell so long as you pay the bill downstairs, it will be a short visit. There is also a separate seating area on the ground floor that will take about 35 seats perfect for private parties and business meetings etc.

The Chef

The head chef and kitchen Manager Mr Giovanni Olimpi joined Paradiso & Inferno on the 31st of March 1969. He was born in Borgo Val Di Taro near Parma in Emiglia Romagna region where the best Italian food is considered to be from. He was awarded a medal for 25 years employment here; by the counsel in Rome however soon he will be receiving one for 50 years if his mind and legs would allow him.

Local Attractions

Transport Museum
Convent Garden Piazza
London Eye
River Thames Boat bars
Art Galleries including Tate
Nightclubs

Famous People Who Have Dined Here

The Late Lord Deedes (Very Regular)
Carol Thatcher
Eric Sykes (Regular)
Bishop Desmond Tutu
Wesley Philips
Will Greenwood (Rugby Player )(Regular)
Phil Collins
Cynthia Payne
David Rocastle ( footballer)
The  Whole 1985 Australia Cricket Team
Graham Gooch
David Hasselhoff
David Niven (Regular)
The Late Ivor Mills
Nick Faldo
Ken Livingstone
Falcao ( ex Brazilian foolballer)
Bobby Charlton
Many More