IN PICTURES: We join Antonio Carluccio as he celebrates his 80th birthday at the opening of his York restaurant

Friday night was big night for the Godfather of Italian cooking as Antonio Carluccio enjoyed a double celebration – the opening of his York restaurant and his 80th birthday.

Foodie fanatics and VIPs joined Antonio at his restaurant in St Helen’s Square, York where he celebrated the opening of Carluccio’s Northern flagship restaurant.

Visitors were greeted at the door with a Chocolate Orange Negroni cocktail specially created for the new restaurant, paying homage to the building’s history as Terry’s shop.

Partygoers enjoyed live music from Impromptu Opera, whist they sipped prosecco and enjoyed fresh Italian antipasti and canapés.

Photos by Mark Davis.