YOU may not be able to fly to Naples from the airfield at Nympsfield – but you can get a delicious taste of Italy at the Bristol and Gloucestershire Gliding Club.

Giuseppe’s Gourmet, run by former head chef Giuseppe Silipo, is fast becoming an extremely popular place to eat.

Freshly baked bread, wonderful olives, delicious Italian dishes and a chance to buy a range of imported goodies such as olive oil and parmesan cheese, ensure that customers return again and again.

Although Giuseppe has been running the gliding club café for more than two years, he has only recently put up a sign announcing the venture.

"Previously I was working as a chef and trying to run the café as well – two demanding jobs – so the time I could spend here was limited," he explained.

"Now I have given up my other job and decided to concentrate full time on Giuseppe’s Gourmet, so I thought it was time to let everyone know I was here."

The café is open to the public as well as gliding club members and it has taken less than a month to really 'take off'.

"I think it was the sign that did it," said Giuseppe. "I now have a lot of people dropping in – many regulars from places such as Uley and Stonehouse. I have birthday parties booked and last week there was a group of 15 among the Sunday lunchers. It already looks as if I am going to be very busy throughout July."

Guiseppe, who worked as a head chef in Italy and England for 25 years, is using his considerable experience to wow those with discerning palates in the Stroud district and beyond. Many ingredients are sourced locally and everything is freshly cooked each day by Giuseppe himself.

Giuseppe’s Gourmet is open Tuesday to Sunday from 8.30am until late and there are plans to stay open throughout the winter months as well.

The Bristol and Gloucestershire Gliding Club has an open day on Saturday, June 20 when there will be lots of aircraft, exhibitions and trial lessons on offer. Giuseppe will serving food all day and running a special Italian buffet in the evening – a perfect time to find out exactly what this unusual café is all about. Booking is advisable. Contact Giuseppe on 0777 230 5636.