DUNFERMLINE could soon be saying goodbye to Ciao Italia as the restaurant has been put for sale.

The popular Italian on Nethertown Broad Street has been listed for an asking price of £495,000.

The owners bought the former Teddybears Nursery property in 2007 and converted it into a 70-cover restaurant but it’s now up for sale as the owners focus on other business interests.

Marco Crolla, director of M Crolla & Sons Ltd, Ciao Italia, admitted it was a tough decision to put the restaurant on the market after years of successful trade in the town.

He said: “It was a heartfelt decision to put Ciao Italia on the market as we have been here for six years and have appreciated the custom from patrons in Dunfermline and the surrounding area, with many regulars who have become friends. However, it should be noted that we will not be selling on Ciao Italia before May this year.

“Unfortunately, Ciao Italia does not fit in with our new development plans for growth and as a young company, my two brothers and I took the decision to sell as part of our future business strategy.

“As a young company, we currently have five food operations with plans for expansion with a new food concept with a view to open branches throughout Central Scotland.”

The listing on Rightmove states: “Over the years, the business has built up an excellent reputation in the town both for locals and from those travelling from further afield. With it being a family-run restaurant, our clients take a great pride in the food and service provided and this shows with the quality reviews the business receives.

“Although trading very successfully in its current format as an Italian restaurant, it is thought the space available and the condition throughout would lend itself to being suitable for any number of different international cuisines. Current turnover is in the region of £10,000 per week.”

The premises will continue to have use of the car park which is located behind the eatery.