This relative newcomer to the bustling and regularly-frequented streets of Marsalforn in Gozo is an invitation to bask in the charms of Italian tastes and traditions, from its menu to its interior details that invoke the rustic and charismatic character of a traditional Italian trattoria.
Carried out by the team at And Bold studio, led by interior designer Carlo Schembri, Da Marco Ristorante invites patrons to be transported from one coastal town to another in southern Italy “to experience the allure of the Amalfi coast.”
“This enchanting establishment beckons patrons into a meticulously designed space, where every element seamlessly transports them to the sun-kissed shores of Italy.”
Drawing from the casual yet enchanting interior styles of a trattoria – typically defined as a style of eatery that is informal in nature and with a quaint and homely aesthetic – Da Marco features many of the qualities you’d expect to see in the traditional dining offerings in neighbouring Italy – an open kitchen for pizza preparation, inspired wallpaper, rustic-looking furniture and patterned floor coverings.
The design team explains that the restaurant’s interiors were carefully curated to achieve an authentic Italian setting that complements the site’s context, carried out by “weaving a tapestry of vibrant blues and citrus patterns that harmoniously blend with the natural coastal ambience of Gozo. This synergy of colours creates an atmosphere that is as warm and inviting as it is visually stunning.”
The colour palette employed in the interior design mirrors the restaurant’s coastal surroundings, creating a harmonious scale of hues that complements the azure sea and sky beyond.
“The carefully selected lighting fixtures play a pivotal role, casting a soft, flattering glow that transforms the space into an ideal setting for diverse occasions – from power lunches to intimate, romantic dinners under the Mediterranean moonlight,” the team says
“The decor, inspired by the Mediterranean aesthetic, incorporates natural materials and design elements that pay homage to the rich cultural heritage of the region. This intentional fusion of design and cultural essence elevates the dining experience, providing a feast not only for the palate but also for the eyes.”
Photography: Gianluca Schembri
