A NEW independent Italian deli and wine shop is set to open in the city after several successful sell-out events.
Rizzo Deli & Wine Club will finally be opening its first store at 3 King Street following years of hosting pop-up events across Worcester and at Benedictos.
The shop will offer a curated selection of Italian wines and artisan ingredients, including seasonal hampers and personalised recommendations.
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The club has hosted only wine-tasting pop-up events in Worcester, and the new store marks another step forward for business owner Gianluca Austin-Rizzo.
Mr Austin-Rizzo hopes to bring nearly 30 years of experience in fine dining, wine, and restaurant management to his new store.
“This is not just a shop. It’s an experience,” said Mr Austin-Rizzo, who also manages Benedictos Italian Restaurant.
“I want people to come in, talk about what they’re cooking or planning, and leave inspired—with the right wine, the right ingredients, and the confidence to create something special at home.”
He began his career training at the renowned Waterside Inn under Michel Roux, Alain Roux, and Diego Masciaga, gaining early experience in fine dining before spending more than five years as general manager at Simpsons Restaurant.
His reputation has grown through the Rizzo Wine Club, which now boasts more than 700 members and regularly hosts sold-out wine dinners across Worcester and the UK.
The new deli is expected to add to Worcester’s growing independent food and drink sector.
Mr Austin-Rizzo said: “Worcester has given me so much over the years.
“This is my way of giving something back—creating a space that is authentic, welcoming, and built around quality, experience, and community.”
He will continue to manage Benedictos and support other hospitality projects in the city, with further developments already in the pipeline.
Rizzo Deli & Wine Club is set to open soon but no official opening date has yet been provided.