Business Details
41 Years
experience
Award-Winning Italian Dining in Scarborough
Lanterna Ristorante has been a cornerstone of Scarborough's culinary scene for nearly four decades, offering an elevated Italian dining experience rooted in the traditions of Giorgio Alessio's native Piedmont. Since acquiring the establishment in 1997, Chef-patron Giorgio has dedicated himself to crafting dishes that harmonise the rich, comforting flavours of northern Italy with the freshest local Yorkshire produce, particularly seafood sourced daily from Scarborough Harbour. Our reputation as 'The English Temple of Italian Cuisine' reflects our unwavering commitment to quality, evidenced by our meticulous ingredient selection and seasonal menus that showcase rare white truffles during their annual October-December availability.Recognised by esteemed publications such as The Guardian and The Telegraph, we specialise in creating memorable dining experiences through hand-made pasta, game dishes, and innovative combinations like deep-fried bread in fish soup. With a legacy of culinary excellence spanning decades, we continue to champion sustainable practices while maintaining the authenticity of Italian cookery through Giorgio's passionate, hands-on approach to both food and hospitality.
Services
Italian Cuisine
Seafood Specials
Truffle Dishes
Gluten-Free Options
Private Dining
Details
- Year established: 1985
Highlights and features
- 40 years of culinary excellence in Scarborough since 1997
- Daily fresh seafood sourced directly from Scarborough Harbour
- Rare white truffle dishes available seasonally from October-December
- Recognised by The Guardian, The Telegraph, and Michelin guides
- Hand-made pasta and traditional Piedmontese recipes perfected over decades
What people say
Touch of alchemy
Shoots you down a wormhole to Italy
Perfect fish soup
Battered langoustines sweetness
Unlikeliest destination restaurant
Services
Italian Cuisine
Authentic northern Italian dishes crafted using traditional methods and recipes passed through generations. Our menu showcases the rich culinary heritage of Giorgio Alessio's native Piedmont region, featuring game meats, risottos, and handmade pasta. Each dish combines centuries-old techniques with modern presentation, offering diners an immersive Italian gastronomic experience.
Seafood Specials
Daily selection of North Sea fish and shellfish sourced directly from Scarborough Harbour. Our specials list changes according to seasonal availability, featuring dishes like velvet crab spaghetti and wild sea bass. Sustainability is paramount, with all seafood meeting strict environmental standards while maintaining the vibrant flavours that define our coastal cuisine.
White Truffle Dishes
Seasonal specialties featuring rare Alba white truffles from Moncalvo, Italy. Available October to January, these dishes highlight Giorgio's expertise in balancing earthy truffle aromas with complementary ingredients. Signature offerings include truffle-shaved fillet steak and hand-made pasta with butter and white truffles, showcasing both Italian tradition and Yorkshire produce.
Gluten-Free Options
Comprehensive gluten-free alternatives for most pasta dishes, maintaining authentic Italian taste and texture. Our kitchen accommodates dietary needs without compromising quality, offering specially prepared versions of classic recipes. This service reflects our commitment to inclusivity while preserving the integrity of traditional Italian cookery.
Private Dining
Exclusive dining experiences for special occasions and corporate events. Our restaurant offers intimate settings for celebrations, with tailored menus and wine pairings. This service extends Giorgio's personal hospitality approach, creating memorable occasions through bespoke culinary arrangements in a refined Italian atmosphere.
People
Giorgio Alessio
Chef-Patron
Award-winning Italian chef with over 25 years leading La Lanterna. Born in Piedmont, he combines regional traditions with Yorkshire ingredients. Recognised for his passionate approach to fresh produce and truffle expertise.
Rachel Alessio
Co-Proprietor
Integral to the restaurant's front-of-house operations since joining in 1997. Works closely with Giorgio to maintain the establishment's renowned standards of hospitality and service excellence.
Questions
What makes La Lanterna's Italian cuisine unique?
Our dishes combine Giorgio Alessio's Piedmontese heritage with Yorkshire's freshest local ingredients, particularly seafood from Scarborough Harbour. This creates an authentic yet regionally adapted Italian dining experience.
When can I experience white truffle dishes?
White truffle specialties are available seasonally from October to December, featuring Alba truffles sourced directly from Moncalvo, Italy, during this period.
How do I book a table?
Reservations are recommended for Thursday-Saturday evenings. Contact us directly via phone at 01723 363616 to secure your dining experience.
Are there gluten-free options available?
Yes, we offer gluten-free alternatives for most pasta dishes, maintaining the authenticity and quality of our traditional Italian recipes.
What seafood can I expect on the menu?
Our daily specials feature North Sea fish and shellfish from Scarborough Harbour, including wild sea bass, turbot, and locally caught winkle varieties prepared in seasonal dishes.
