A popular Italian restaurant is set to make a comeback in Whitehaven this autumn.

Under new ownership and management, the restaurant has been rebranded as Casa Italian.

The restaurant, located in Queen Street, aims to delight locals once again with its Italian cuisine and customer service.

The owners of the tapas bar, The Pour House, Luke Johnston and Robert MacMillan, have taken the helm and have welcomed Luke's close friend, Dean Hodgson, to the team.

The front of the building currently undergoing refurbishment (Image: Supplied) The new restaurant will serve traditional Italian dishes, including freshly made pizzas, pasta, risotto, seafood, and steak.

Gluten-free options featuring handmade gluten-free pizza bases will also be available.

Luke , a company director, said: "We’ve rebranded and are currently refurbishing the restaurant.

"We are excited to begin our recruitment drive to find the best team in west Cumbria—ideally, people who love Italian food and culture.

"We aim to offer top-quality Italian cuisine, exceptional service, and a welcoming atmosphere—a place where you can come for a celebration or a casual meal, with something for everyone."

Casa Italian is also looking to hire a front-of-house manager, waiters and waitresses, and kitchen support staff.

Luke continued: "Our new head chef is currently curating an exciting menu, which we are looking forward to sharing soon along with who it is we’ve recruited as our head chef."

The building on Duke Street was home to Casa a Roma for many years, but it closed earlier this year.

Luke added: "I have faith in Whitehaven, which already has some great food establishments, but we want to provide even more variety for those living and visiting our town.

"The more options we offer, the more people we hope to attract to the area."