The 190 sq m rectangular space is arranged in four zones, with subtle shifts in décor that identify each area and create a natural flow. The main dining room is typically Italian with an oak coffee-to-cocktail bar, an antique brass-framed mirror, and hand-plastered walls.

Then the central area — Nonna’s Open Kitchen — brings on a wave of nostalgia with terrazzo flooring, poured in place the old-fashioned way; it's teamed with brass trims and quirky green tartan counter seating opposite a striking white-tile pizza oven imported from Anagni, a medieval hill town between Rome and Naples, birthplace of pizza.

To the rear of the restaurant, banquettes provide more intimate dining, and are framed with a geometric motif in three shades of burgundy. Recycled PET fibre wallpaper from Omexco in Belgium adds a playful touch to the semi-private dining room.

An American influence adds a strong shock of colour in the works of art by contemporary artists Mr. Star City and Nicasio Fernandez, Brian Calvin, and Megan Whitmarsh, all reflecting Carlo’s creative character.

The result is a vibrant, inventive, cohesive place that recreates the authentic spirit of Italy infused with a New York twist — together with Manila. The relaxed and friendly, design-led, all-day destination’s menu also stays true to its Italian roots, ranging from a tempting selection of frothy morning cappuccinos to appetising classic antipasti, primi and secondi piatti, and cocktails — and the 18-inch vodka pizza and Aperol spritz come highly recommended.

See more photography from Carlo's and read about JJ's inspiration and creative vision for the space.