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Pix: TV chef Antonio Carluccio enjoys 80th birthday party at his York restaurant

A cake, but no bumps… Antonio Carluccio celebrates his 80th birthday in York. Photographs: Carluccio’s
@ Food & drink

Godfather of Italian cooking Antonio Carluccio enjoyed a double celebration in York – the official opening of Carluccio’s restaurant and his 80th birthday party.

Foodie and VIPs gathered at the St Helen’s Square restaurant on Friday (April 21) as celebrity chef Antonio hosted the event.

Among the guests were Lord Mayor of York Dave Taylor and sheriff Jonathan Tyler.

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Special cocktails

Antonio gives a wave from the Carluccio’s balcony

Visitors were greeted at the door with a Chocolate Orange Negroni cocktail specially created for the new restaurant, paying homage to the building’s history as Terry’s shop.

The prosecco flowed as guests were treated to live music from Impromptu Opera whilst they enjoyed fresh Italian antipasti, canapés and cocktails.

Antonio and staff of the St Helen’s Square restaurant
Lord Mayor of York Cllr Dave Taylor and Lady Mayoress Susan Ridley join Antonio

The Carluccio’s team presented Antonio with a stunning chocolate cake, crafted by London bakery The Bread Factory.

And on Saturday Antonio later hosted a signing of his latest book Vegetables.

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