Miscusi, the ultra-sustainable Italian pasta chain based in Milan, opened its first international branch in Covent Garden’s new The Yards development this week. Launched in 2017, Miscusi is a certified B Corp and has become a big hit in Italy, where it now has 13 branches in seven cities.

Founder Alberto Cartasegna first came to London at the age of 18 to work in the kitchen at Oliveto, the Sardinian pizzeria in Belgravia, and has become an influential figure with the success of Miscusi.

The chain aims to reduce waste and plastic use to zero, and has its own regenerative farming project outside Milan. The kitchens use seven different varieties of flour to promote biodiversity, and 60% of the menu is plant-based.

Signature dishes include sorghum fusilloni with pesto, sautéed vegetables and chopped almonds, and ancient grains paccheri with tomatoes, burrata and creamed and chopped pistachios. Diners are also encouraged to ‘get creative’ and order combinations to suit their own tastes or dietary demands.