Not all restaurants are created equal; some feel like home from the moment you walk in. Especially when they are run by a family who treats every guest as one of their own – which is exactly what you will find behind the doors of one beloved local spot. At Mio Fiore, every dish tells a story from the heart of Italy and every guest is welcomed as an extended member of the family. We heard more about this exceptional family-run business from Ardita Kurtaj, Co-Founder of Mio Fiore, as the restaurant is named in the Business Elite Awards 2025.
Mio Fiore was launched in 2016 by husband-and-wife duo Ardita and Dino Kurtaj. Since its inception, the family restaurants mission has been clear: to create a warm and inviting atmosphere, a space where families can gather, connect, and create lasting memories over delicious food and exceptionally personalised service.
The restaurant serves homemade Italian food – using quality imported products and fresh locally sourced ingredients – its menu comprising a variety of antipasti, pizzas, pasta, seafood, and meat options from different regions of Italy. With rustic décor, cosy lighting, and soft Italian music in the background, Mio Fiore strives to serve an authentic slice of Italy to the local community of Newbury.
Across its community, Mio Fiore is renowned for its tasty pastas served with its own tomato sauce, as well as its wood oven-baked pizzas made with homemade, fresh dough. Beyond mains, the restaurant’s desserts are unrivalled and all made in-house, with its Tiramisu and Raspberry Cheesecake longstanding bestsellers. This commitment continues behind the bar, as Mio Fiore only serves Italian corked wines specifically selected to complement its delectable dishes.
“We take pride in serving tasty, fresh, and authentic Italian dishes,” said Ardita. “We are known for consistently providing a lovely atmosphere, featuring attentive and friendly staff who always provide a warm welcome. We strive to provide our customers with a dining experience they will never forget, wanting them to feel welcomed and at home with every interaction they have with us.”
In less than a decade, Mio Fiore has earned a stellar reputation within the community of Newbury, establishing itself as a prime location for exceptional meals and superior services. The restaurant has amassed a number of glowing testimonials from returning clientele, praising the team for their warm welcome and fantastic food.
One guest wrote: “Mio Fiore is more than just a restaurant – it is a place filled with warmth, love, and unforgettable flavours. I’ve been coming here for years, from my first date with my now long-term partner to every anniversary and Valentine’s day since. Each visit feels like a celebration, not just because of the occasion but because of the incredible experience Mio Fiore provides.
“The food is simply unreal. The menu is exceptional, but the specials take it to another level. Every bite is crafted with heart, and I can honestly say I’ve never tasted anything quite like it. I cannot recommend Mio Fiore enough. It is more than just a meal; it is an experience, a memory, and for us, somewhere that will always hold a special place in our hearts. If you’re looking for a restaurant that truly stands out, look no further.”
Driven by the unwavering support of its patrons, Mio Fiore has recently opened a new coffee shop in Newbury. Here, the team serve authentic Italian pastries, panini, and coffee – with its own coffee blend roasted fresh weekly. Customers of Mio Fiore Café are treated with the same warm welcome and quality food as they do the restaurant – the renowned Mio Fiore approach that has earned the restaurant recognition as Newbury’s Best Family-Run Authentic Italian Restaurant and Café 2025. Moving forward, the restaurant will continue delivering its unrivalled services to its clientele, driven by its mission to bring a taste of authentic Italy to the people of Newbury.
“We have always been passionate about food and creating memorable experiences for people,” Ardita shared. “The hospitality industry allows us to combine our love for service with our entrepreneurial spirit. We really enjoy the dynamic environment and the opportunity to interact with diverse individuals. Despite the difficulties that the hospitality industry has faced, there is always going to be a demand for personalised and unique experiences in this sector. Can you imagine what life would be like without any restaurants or places to go out and eat?”
Contact Details
Contact: Ardita Kurtaj
Company: Mio Fiore
Web Address: www.miofiore.co.uk
