This isn’t our usual sort of article, because it isn’t a review!! Yes, there was food involved – and jolly tasty it was, too – but the focus was on the gentleman behind Dolce-Salato in Derby. Chef Reno was holding court in his kitchen with his usual flair, though there was a tinge of sadness in the air as this was to be the final evening service. Having battled for a long, long time with pesky joint issues, the time has come for Reno to undergo surgery and put away his Chefs’ knives for a while.
It was lovely to see how busy the restaurant was; clearly, Reno has touched many hearts over his years at Dolce-Salato. The service was spot-on and the food ‘superbo’, with the ambience hitting its peak when the Saturday night Piano Man began tickling the ivories. How fitting that he ended with Abba’s ‘Thank You For The Music’, dialling in to the restaurant’s occasion.
Reno was persuaded to give a small speech, and the warmth of emotion was palpable. We were all assured that this was merely “Ci vediamo presto”/See you soon, rather than “Arrivederci per sempre”/Goodbye forever. His Nibs and I were privy to what Reno possibly has in store when he has recovered, and a likely location but, as I said to a fellow diner (Matt) “My lips are zipped; it isn’t my news to tell”. Rest assured though, folks, as soon as we know about solid future plans from the man himself, we will be glad to promote the news!
Thank you for all the wonderful meals and evenings out, Reno, we will certainly be visiting your new venture. Until then, we wish you all the best xx