The Paradiso story began with Olivelli's Hotel and Restaurant which was founded in 1934 by Sicilian-born Rita and Enrico Olivelli. Situated in Store Street - heart of Bohemian London, it quickly became a haven for students from nearby RADA and established actors and actresses at famous London theatres.

But a culinary gem like this couldn't be hidden away in London for long. Olivelli's fame spread rapidly due to its warm, friendly atmosphere and superior, value-for-money food. Such was its reputation that the Marx Brothers insisted on eating at the restaurant on their one and only visit to England. And among the other famous diners were Mae West, Danny Kaye, Jimmy Durante, Mickey Rooney, Bob Hope and Liberace.

In 1993 the restaurant was bought by Giovanni and Salvatore Salamone - also Sicilian-born. They renamed it Paradiso Olivelli – the first of the popular chain of Paradiso outlets across London which are now firmly established with the capital's eating out set.

The brothers have taken great care to preserve the unique characteristics of the original Olivelli's, recreating its welcoming atmosphere and using only the finest, freshest ingredients sourced from Italy and nearby markets.

Not surprisingly, celebrities such as Mel Brookes, Eric Clapton, Kevin Spacey, Graham Norton, Ben Elton, Jack Dee and Brian May continue to dine at the Paradiso Olivelli restaurants.