Enzo’s Ristorante has announced it will close the doors to its beloved establishment along Port Road after 25 years. What started as a dream to bring the flavours of Italy to the local community has exceeded all expectations, leaving behind a legacy of incredible hospitality. 

As Enzo’s is busy preparing for its next chapter, diners will have the opportunity to indulge in its famed courses of pasta, pizza and antipasti until May 4, when the restaurant will serve its final meals. 

“Tears may mark the end of this chapter, but it’s with gratitude and anticipation that I look forward to the future,” says Enzo, who first opened the Port Road institution in 1999. “The legacy of Enzo’s will live on through the passion we’ve shared at the restaurant and the homes we now touch with our ready meals.” 

Enzo’s Ristorante pivoted in 2004 to expand its famed flavours to tasty ready-made meals. The success of Enzo’s at Home continues to demonstrate SA’s appetite for authentic Italian flavours, and the legacy of the Port Road institution will live on through this venture, led by Enzo’s sons, Matthew and Alex. 

At the helm of his restaurant, Enzo himself has cooked more than 750,000 Italian meals for celebrities, professional sporting teams and international dignitaries, including Bon Jovi. In 2012, Enzo’s was one of the first restaurants in Australia to be awarded the Ospitalita Italiana accreditation from the Italian Government and the Italian Chamber of Commerce for recognition in providing an authentic Italian dining experience. Further, in 2017 and 2019, the restaurant was the winner of the SA Awards for Excellence in Formal Italian Dining. 

Reflecting on the decision to close, Enzo shares, “Our lease was up and after 25 years the time was right to move on. I am excited about what the next chapter holds for Enzo’s and the future development of our brand. Together with my family, we’re looking forward to the next phase of my life. 

“I am very thankful for the incredible journey we’ve shared at Enzo’s Ristorante. To my wife Teresa, daughter Natalie, son Anthony, our staff and valued patrons, you have been the heart of this wonderful restaurant, and I am so grateful for the experiences we have shared and wonderful memories.

“Outside of my family cooking has always been my second love. Now, I get to blend the two and share everything I have learned over the last 25 years. It is something I am looking forward to”. 

Over the coming months, the family invites patrons, old and new, to join them in celebrating this significant quarter-of-a-century milestone. Enzo himself will be sharing a range of his favourite dishes as part of the birthday celebrations. 

You can find Enzo’s Ristorante at 46 Port Road, Hindmarsh, open Tuesday to Saturday. Book a table online here.