Buon compleanno
A cherished local restaurant is celebrating a significant milestone
With so much having happened during the past decade and a half, it’s almost hard to remember what Paddington was like in 2010. With wars, a pandemic, bushfires and disasters occurring between that year and now, 15 years ago seems like a distance lost in time.
Yet that was the year one of the suburb’s favourite restaurants came into being — and it is still going strong. This year marks the milestone anniversary for Cipri Italian, the restaurant of the Cipri family, which also runs Barbetta café, both on Elizabeth St.
Founded by brothers Joe, Carmelo and Anthony Cipri, the restaurant has been a labour of love dedicated to providing a high-quality Italian dining experience to locals and visitors to Paddington alike.
“We wanted to create a place where people felt like part of our family — where the warmth and joy of a traditional Italian meal could be shared with everyone,” says Joe Cipri. “It’s been an incredible 15 years and we are proud to keep delivering an authentic experience that feels like home.”
Says Carmelo Cipri: “It’s our obsession to bring the true essence of Italian food to life. Every dish is made with love, and we are constantly inspired by Italy’s diverse flavours. For us, it’s not just about food — it’s about creating an experience that touches the heart.”
Executive chef Carmelo Cipri and head chef Omar Gasbarri, who hails from the Lazio region in Italy, collaborate over a menu that blends traditional and contemporary Italian flavours.
Entrees include sliced cuttlefish with pea puree and squid ink croutons; pastas include thyme pappardelle with slow-braised duck and Swiss brown mushroom ragu; and the house specialty is ‘La Fiorentina’— a 1kg T-bone steak served with polenta chips, rocket, mushrooms and Tuscan salt.
Watch out this year for celebrations at the restaurant or just call in to wish the team a happy birthday. It’s a big milestone. Well may they continue for another 15 years, or more.
Cipri Italian
10 Elizabeth St