The family said the restaurant will be “evolving” into a new concept
11:53, 16 Jan 2026Updated 18:01, 16 Jan 2026
Paolo Cillo, owner of Il Forno, which is about to close its doors
A family-run restaurant that has been in the city centre for over two decades is closing its doors. Il Forno, the Italian eatery that has served authentic dishes on Duke Street since 2005, has shut its doors.
It comes as the team behind it, the Cillo family, who also operate Gran Caffe and Liverpool’s tallest restaurant Panoramic 34, announce “exciting new plans”. The venue will reopen its doors as Botanico following a transformation to evolve into an all-day eatery.
The Cillo family said this transition will allow the venue to broaden its offerings, with a fresh concept and a vibrant venue, designed to reflect the way Liverpool lives today.
Botanico, which first launched in the heart of Woolton Village in October 2023, prides itself on its contemporary interiors, relaxed atmosphere, Italian-inspired dishes, and Sunday roasts.
Donato Cillo, owner of Botanico in Woolton(Image: Iain Watts)
Donato Cillo, owner of Botanico, said: “Our decision to evolve Il Forno into Botanico is about listening to our guests and the city we love.
“Botanico allows us to honour our Italian roots while creating a more dynamic space – one where guests can enjoy exceptional coffee in the morning, relaxed brunches, business lunches, and memorable evening meals, all under one roof.
“Our valued guests can expect the same commitment to authenticity, quality ingredients and warm hospitality, now paired with a contemporary vision and accessible pricing designed to welcome everyone.”
He explained that while both concepts are rooted in the same Italian food and hospitality, Il Forno has been synonymous with traditional Italian dining, whereas Botanico is an all-day eatery, serving guests from morning to night.
Il Forno’s new private dining area
The family believe this approach will facilitate the needs of a wide variety of guests, including families, couples and groups of friends, as well as tourists and business professionals. They hope Il Forno’s legacy will live on through Botanico.
The news comes after Il Forno launched a new private dining area with a hefty investment. The team’s £120,000 space opened in 2024 and was created for large parties, private celebrations, birthdays, baby showers, and intimate weddings as well as for corporate businesses and board meetings, with the room complete with a private bar, wine wall and projector.
Seating 22, the space added to the already 150-seat strong venue. The area was also used as a backdrop to bespoke masterclasses and wine tastings complete with Italian small plates.
Dining and Cooking