September 11, 2025

Italian glitz and glamour comes to Leeds as Riva Blu launches its new menu

Riva Blu in Leeds will be transporting guests to the south of Italy this summer thanks to an exciting new menu, authentic aperitivo, vibrant alfresco dining and home-made limoncello. 

Riva Blu’s revived summer offering is set to combine the glamour of the Amalfi Coast with the edgy back streets of Naples. Expect classic dishes with a modern Mediterranean twist, a laid-back atmosphere with a pinch of theatrical flair and the sweetness of ‘la dolce vita’ with some added zest.

Using only the finest and freshest ingredients, Riva’s impressive summer menu boasts 20 new dishes, including exclusive ‘Biga’ dough pizzas, made in-house by Master Baker Davide Argentino. This super light dough will be sliced, Italian style, at the table with scissors. Salsetta a Limone and Salsetta N’Duja dips will complement the lightness of the dough (which is so tasty you won’t want to leave even the crusts)!

Capturing a true taste of Italy, other menu items include staples like Linguine Vongole, Tuna Tartare, and Gamberi Rossi. There will also be dishes that capture the vibrance of Naples’ street food, like Mozzarella, Ham and Pea Frittatina, Arancini, and Poplette di Melanzane. This will be paired with a new, organic wine list for the season.

Citrus scents will transport guests to Southern Italy through all senses. Expect bright colours, branded sunglasses, lemon trees, lemon sorbet ice cream, and music to mimic Radio Capri. Riva Blu’s terrace is the perfect place to experience the summer season.

If that wasn’t enough, Riva Blu will also be serving up an exclusive Limoncello Spritz and their very own limoncello. Made exclusively with lemons from the Amalfi Coast, this zesty limoncello will even feature a new tiramisu offering. This refreshing limoncello tiramisu will be made at the table right in front of guests, so they can really soak in the atmosphere!

June will also see the art of aperitivo arriving in Leeds. Served until 7:30pm, light nibbles will be offered with all aperitivo drinks, including a selection of Italian wines, Campari cocktails and beer. What better way to enjoy the sun than by kicking back on Riva Blu’s summer terrace, surrounded by lemon trees, with a cold drink and an authentic Italian nibble? After all, Italian dining is all about ‘la dolce vita!’

Dario Baldassarre, SGM for Leeds, said: “Riva Blu for me is a vibrant and stylish destination that captures the essence of modern Italy whilst also being warm, inviting and charming, it’s a journey you won’t forget!  I’m from the centre of Naples and when I see my restaurant full, and my guests and staff happy, it reminds me of being home.

“We are super excited to unveil Riva’s new offering this summer. Diners can expect a vibrant, lively atmosphere, with Italian passionate staff and bold geometric outfits that pair perfectly with our bright exclusive cocktails!” 

Located on Park Row in the heart of Leeds and formerly Gino’s, Riva Blu Italian Restaurant & Bar boasts an open kitchen, cocktail bar and a small but perfectly formed alfresco terrace, so you can dine all’aperto ‘in the open air’.

Bookings can be made online at https://rivablu.co.uk/leeds/

Check out Riva Blu on Instagram and Facebook.