Don Camillo is Hobart's longest running restaurant. Established in December of 1965 it has seen many a trend come and go and is still a highly regarded dining experience amongst the locals.
A brief history of the Di Martino family and their impact on Hobart’s restaurant culture.
Don Camillo restaurant was opened in 1965 by Umberto Tucceri. It was one of 3 restaurants in Hobart at the time. Needless to say it was a busy nightspot in Hobart, guests still speak of waiting in a line that snaked around the corner of Magnet Court and receiving a free glass of Limoncello while they waited for a table. One of the waiters running about on these busy evenings was a young Sergio Simonetto. A few years after opening, Sergio took over the reigns of the busy little restaurant, and along with Mark Westcott they served Hobart’s diners for 35 years.
Mark Westcott in the pre-renovated front section of Don Camillo restaurant. Image credit Paul County, from the book When We Eat
The Di Martino family took over Don Camillo restaurant in 2002. Lina Di Martino, the matriarch of the family, has had a long history in hospitality in Tasmania. Herself and her husband Luciano ran The Etna in the 1970’s, along with Luciano’s brother Luigi and his wife Anna as well as original owner Mario Cundari. The Etna was Tasmania’s first introduction to pizza. After many years at The Etna and working in many other businesses like La Fontana, Tarantella, The Ambassador and too many others to remember, her 40 year career in hospitality found Lina working with Romeo Cattaruzza at Mona Lisa restaurant, an iconic restaurant and part of Hobart’s entertainment history. Her son Dino’s first job was working at Mona Lisa, (through a sly bit of Italian nepotism) where he would eventually become manager, running the floor for Romeo and learning the craft of Italian hospitality, creating a family atmosphere, greeting guests and being a host.
One of the last remaining original menus of Mona Lisa, on display at Don Camillo restaurant.
Whilst working at Mona Lisa, Lina was also working at Don Camillo restaurant, then owned by Sergio Simonetto. Eventually the time came for Sergio to put up his apron and hand over the reigns. Lina discussed the idea with her family and the decision was made, the Di Martino family would become the new owners of Hobart’s longest running restaurant.
We look forward to having you dine with us.
Alla nostra salute.