A popular and well-established Italian restaurant in Horwich is officially re launching tonight.

Rocco’s Italian Restaurant on Chorley New Road has had a complete transformation, including reverting the name back to Leo’s.

The restaurant has been in the area for 30 years and is known to many as Leo’s.

The Bolton News: Owner and manager AlbiOwner and manager Albi (Image: Newsquest)

The bathroom has also had a touch up, with new flooring and paint.

Owner and manager Albi Nusgalliu said: “The marble tables help give it that classy touch.

“We wanted something to fit the theme of a botanical kind of style.

“When we took over this place, we didn’t do anything and just carried on doing what was being done before.

“But changing the name and having the refurbishment is about the customers and us.

“We needed to feel like the place had our touch.

“I wanted the place to match the standard of food.”

The Bolton News: Inside the new restaurantInside the new restaurant (Image: Newsquest)

She added: “It felt like we were just here managing and not putting our soul into what we were doing.

“I’m very happy the name has changed because I didn’t know the history before.”

Albi added: “We have some different items on the special menu, with lots of classic dishes, and a variety of new pasta dishes, and a selection of meat for those who love it.”

She also said that herself and the other managers are very much involved in every part of the business.

Albi and her family took charge of the eatery in July after always dreaming of running a business.

The Bolton News: One of the cosy areas of the restaurantOne of the cosy areas of the restaurant (Image: Newsquest)

Growing up in Albania, Albi says that the culture and food was similar to that in Italy, and she wants to bring some of her childhood culture into the food being served.

She said: “This is why we feel confident with the Italian cuisine.

“I grew up with Italian food and Italian culture, so this is like having that little piece from my childhood in here and it feels nice.

“I am an engineer and I always wanted something to do with a business, so when this opportunity came around through a friend, we thought why not consider it.

“And it’s turned out really nice so far.

“Most people’s passion comes from the love of food, and I do love the food, but I love that it is a family business.”

The restaurant is set to open at 5pm tonight.

They have already received a lot of booking for Christmas with only a few places left.

Residents can place bookings by calling the restaurant on 01204 667 286.

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